India put up a spirited fight against a much higher ranked Iran in their Group E clash of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers but ended up on the losing side with a 53-86 score-line at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, Indira Gandhi stadium in New Delhi on Monday.

Ranked 81st in the FIBA rankings, India were the underdogs against 27th ranked Iran but the hosts started with a lot of gumption as the packed stadium cheered them throughout the hour-long match.

Forward Pranav Prince impressed with the interceptions in the initial few minutes as the hosts took a two-point lead in the first minute.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-everton-wins-appeal-against-point-deduction-as-10-point-punishment-reduced-to-six-694097">Premier League: Everton wins appeal against point deduction as 10-point punishment reduced to six</a>

Iran took time to get into their rhythm but moved ahead, using their superior physicality to get past the Indian defence but the hosts were definitely in the game, trailing by just three points at the end of the first quarter.

The Indians tried to counter Iran with fast-paced runs and converted over 40% of their two pointers but struggled to counter&nbsp;Iran on the rebounds and paid the price for the same.

India, who had lost their Group opener away to Kazakhstan, trailed 32-42 at half time.

Pranav Prince top scored for the hosts with 11 points with Arvind Kumar Muthu Krishnan and Muin Bek Hafeez contributing nine points each.

For Iran, Benham Yakhchali scored 15 points while Mohammad Amini and Salar Monji added 14 points each for the team.

Commenting on the team’s performance, Serbian Vaseline Matic, who is head coach of Indian team said,&nbsp;"India has talent, we need more experience. We have some gap now before the next qualifier in November and the national team will be participating in club championship and multiple other exposure trips. We are confident that we can give a winning performance."

When asked which Indian player impressed him the most, the Iranian Coach, Hakan Demor spoke highly about the young Indian side. He said he was really impressed by the Indian forward Pranav Prince.

India put up a spirited fight against a much higher ranked Iran in their Group E clash of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers but ended up on the losing side with a 53-86 score-line at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, Indira Gandhi stadium in New Delhi on Monday.

India put up a spirited fight against a much higher ranked Iran in their Group E clash of the 2025 FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers but ended up on the losing side with a 53-86 score-line at the KD Jadhav Indoor Hall, Indira Gandhi stadium in New Delhi on Monday. Ranked 81st in the FIBA rankings, India were the underdogs against 27th ranked Iran but the hosts started with a lot of gumption as the packed stadium cheered them throughout the hour-long match. Forward Pranav Prince impressed with the interceptions in the initial few minutes as the hosts took a two-point lead in the first minute. ALSO READ: Premier League: Everton wins appeal against point deduction as 10-point punishment reduced to six Iran took time to get into their rhythm but moved ahead, using their superior physicality to get past the Indian defence but the hosts were definitely in the game, trailing by just three points at the end of the first quarter. The Indians tried to counter Iran with fast-paced runs and converted over 40% of their two pointers but struggled to counter Iran on the rebounds and paid the price for the same. India, who had lost their Group opener away to Kazakhstan, trailed 32-42 at half time. Pranav Prince top scored for the hosts with 11 points with Arvind Kumar Muthu Krishnan and Muin Bek Hafeez contributing nine points each. For Iran, Benham Yakhchali scored 15 points while Mohammad Amini and Salar Monji added 14 points each for the team. Commenting on the team’s performance, Serbian Vaseline Matic, who is head coach of Indian team said, "India has talent, we need more experience. We have some gap now before the next qualifier in November and the national team will be participating in club championship and multiple other exposure trips. We are confident that we can give a winning performance." When asked which Indian player impressed him the most, the Iranian Coach, Hakan Demor spoke highly about the young Indian side. He said he was really impressed by the Indian forward Pranav Prince.

Basketball - FIBA Asia Cup qualifiers: Spirited India go down against world No. 27 Iran

US Open champion Coco Gauff said on Monday that tennis can follow basketball's example and have men facing women in specialised contests such as Serena Williams and Australian Nick Kyrgios in serve targets.

Gauff was speaking after Stephen Curry sank his last four shots from the right corner to defeat Sabrina Ionescu 29-26 in a 3-point NBA-Women's NBA Challenge on Saturday at NBA All-Star weekend.

The first-ever shootout of the sexes was a groundbreaking showdown between elite guards -- Golden State's Curry, the NBA's all-time 3-point basket leader, and WNBA single-season 3-point record holder Ionescu of the New York Liberty.

Both players shot from the NBA three-point line, which is farther away from the basket than the WNBA three-point line.

Speaking to reporters in Dubai, where she is competing in the WTA tournament, Gauff was asked what skills challenge, akin to the ones featured at the weekend, would work in tennis.

The 19-year-old American said she would love to see Serena Williams and Nick Kyrgios go toe-to-toe in a serve targets contest.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/boxing-manny-pacquiao-accepts-fate-as-ioc-denies-him-spot-at-2024-paris-games-691765">Boxing: Manny Pacquiao accepts fate as IOC denies him spot at 2024 Paris Games</a>

"There's also like the dropshot one," she said. "Ons (Jabeur) and Carlos (Alcaraz) would be a cool matchup against that. There could be maybe a consistency challenge."

Gauff hailed Ionescu's efforts against Curry.

"I think the Sabrina and Steph competition was great," said Gauff. "I think most people were rooting for Sabrina. What she did was incredible, especially also shooting from the NBA line."

"Steph is definitely the greatest three-point shooter ever."

Gauff said she would hope the man against woman shootout is not a one-off.

"I just hope they continue to do this," she said. "It just humbles a lot of men in the world. I really like that.

"Especially basketball, that type of competition, it's something physicality doesn't always matter.

"I think that's what makes it cool."

Gauff is seeded number three this week and will open her campaign against Italian lucky loser Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Tuesday.

The American is coming off an early exit in Doha.

She will be looking to recapture the form that saw her start the season with a title in Auckland and reach the Australian Open semi-finals where she lost to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka.

"It was just a bad day at the office," Gauff said of her performance in Qatar. "I'm not going to let it define how the rest of this week will go."

Two former world No.1s booked their spots in the Dubai second round on Monday.

Victoria Azarenka eased past Arantxa Rus 6-2, 6-4 and Karolina Pliskova improved her record against Chinese wildcard Zhang Shuai to a perfect 9-0 with a 6-3, 7-5 victory.

US Open champion Coco Gauff said on Monday that tennis can follow basketball's example and have men facing women in specialised contests such as Serena Williams and Australian Nick Kyrgios in serve targets.

US Open champion Coco Gauff said on Monday that tennis can follow basketball's example and have men facing women in specialised contests such as Serena Williams and Australian Nick Kyrgios in serve targets. Gauff was speaking after Stephen Curry sank his last four shots from the right corner to defeat Sabrina Ionescu 29-26 in a 3-point NBA-Women's NBA Challenge on Saturday at NBA All-Star weekend. The first-ever shootout of the sexes was a groundbreaking showdown between elite guards -- Golden State's Curry, the NBA's all-time 3-point basket leader, and WNBA single-season 3-point record holder Ionescu of the New York Liberty. Both players shot from the NBA three-point line, which is farther away from the basket than the WNBA three-point line. Speaking to reporters in Dubai, where she is competing in the WTA tournament, Gauff was asked what skills challenge, akin to the ones featured at the weekend, would work in tennis. The 19-year-old American said she would love to see Serena Williams and Nick Kyrgios go toe-to-toe in a serve targets contest. ALSO READ: Boxing: Manny Pacquiao accepts fate as IOC denies him spot at 2024 Paris Games "There's also like the dropshot one," she said. "Ons (Jabeur) and Carlos (Alcaraz) would be a cool matchup against that. There could be maybe a consistency challenge." Gauff hailed Ionescu's efforts against Curry. "I think the Sabrina and Steph competition was great," said Gauff. "I think most people were rooting for Sabrina. What she did was incredible, especially also shooting from the NBA line." "Steph is definitely the greatest three-point shooter ever." Gauff said she would hope the man against woman shootout is not a one-off. "I just hope they continue to do this," she said. "It just humbles a lot of men in the world. I really like that. "Especially basketball, that type of competition, it's something physicality doesn't always matter. "I think that's what makes it cool." Gauff is seeded number three this week and will open her campaign against Italian lucky loser Elisabetta Cocciaretto on Tuesday. The American is coming off an early exit in Doha. She will be looking to recapture the form that saw her start the season with a title in Auckland and reach the Australian Open semi-finals where she lost to eventual champion Aryna Sabalenka. "It was just a bad day at the office," Gauff said of her performance in Qatar. "I'm not going to let it define how the rest of this week will go." Two former world No.1s booked their spots in the Dubai second round on Monday. Victoria Azarenka eased past Arantxa Rus 6-2, 6-4 and Karolina Pliskova improved her record against Chinese wildcard Zhang Shuai to a perfect 9-0 with a 6-3, 7-5 victory.

Coco Gauff urges tennis to follow basketball in male vs female duels

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry gained a 10th NBA All-Star nod and Lakers star Anthony Davis a ninth as reserves for the mid-season showcase were announced on Thursday. Coaches chose the seven reserves from each conference, with Minnesota's Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns both selected in the West.

Kawhi Leonard and Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns were also named to the West squad which will be captained by 20-time All-Star LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers. The East reserves include three first-timers in Philadelphia's Tyrese Maxey, Orlando's Paolo Banchero and the New York Knicks' Jalen Brunson.

The Knicks' Julius Randle was also named a reserve along with Boston star Jaylen Brown, Cleveland's Donovan Mitchell and Miami's Bam Adebayo. All-Star starters, selected by a combination of fan voting and voting by a media panel and by players, were named last month.

Four-time NBA champion James broke the record he had shared with another Lakers legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, with his 20th selection. James will captain and join a starting lineup that also includes Phoenix's Kevin Durant and Serbian center Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP from the defending champion Denver Nuggets.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pl-kobbie-mainoo-stars-in-dramatic-man-united-win-at-wolves-west-ham-fight-back-to-draw-with-bournemouth-686185">PL: Kobbie Mainoo stars in dramatic Man United win at Wolves, West Ham fight back to draw with Bournemouth</a>

West starting guards included Slovenian Luka Doncic of Dallas and Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Canada. Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks was named captain for the East, whose frontcourt starters also include Cameroon's reigning NBA MVP and this season's top scorer Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston's Jayson Tatum.

East guards included Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, the NBA assists leader, and Milwaukee's Damian Lillard. NBA commissioner Adam Silver will select the replacement for any player unable to play in the All-Star Game, selecting a substitute from the same conference.

It looks as if Silver will have multiple replacements to name. The Knicks said Thursday that Randle will miss two to three weeks with a dislocated shoulder while the 76ers revealed Embiid has a meniscus injury in his left knee with no timetable yet for his return.

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry gained a 10th NBA All-Star nod and Lakers star Anthony Davis a ninth as reserves for the mid-season showcase were announced on Thursday.

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry gained a 10th NBA All-Star nod and Lakers star Anthony Davis a ninth as reserves for the mid-season showcase were announced on Thursday. Coaches chose the seven reserves from each conference, with Minnesota's Anthony Edwards and Karl-Anthony Towns both selected in the West. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers and Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns were also named to the West squad which will be captained by 20-time All-Star LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers. The East reserves include three first-timers in Philadelphia's Tyrese Maxey, Orlando's Paolo Banchero and the New York Knicks' Jalen Brunson. The Knicks' Julius Randle was also named a reserve along with Boston star Jaylen Brown, Cleveland's Donovan Mitchell and Miami's Bam Adebayo. All-Star starters, selected by a combination of fan voting and voting by a media panel and by players, were named last month. Four-time NBA champion James broke the record he had shared with another Lakers legend, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, with his 20th selection. James will captain and join a starting lineup that also includes Phoenix's Kevin Durant and Serbian center Nikola Jokic, a two-time MVP from the defending champion Denver Nuggets. Also read: PL: Kobbie Mainoo stars in dramatic Man United win at Wolves, West Ham fight back to draw with Bournemouth West starting guards included Slovenian Luka Doncic of Dallas and Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Canada. Greek star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks was named captain for the East, whose frontcourt starters also include Cameroon's reigning NBA MVP and this season's top scorer Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston's Jayson Tatum. East guards included Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, the NBA assists leader, and Milwaukee's Damian Lillard. NBA commissioner Adam Silver will select the replacement for any player unable to play in the All-Star Game, selecting a substitute from the same conference. It looks as if Silver will have multiple replacements to name. The Knicks said Thursday that Randle will miss two to three weeks with a dislocated shoulder while the 76ers revealed Embiid has a meniscus injury in his left knee with no timetable yet for his return.

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, LA Lakers' Anthony Davis among NBA All-Star reserves

Brandon Ingram had the third triple-double of his career and led a franchise-record 3-point performance as the host New Orleans Pelicans routed the reeling Charlotte Hornets 132-112 on Wednesday night. Ingram finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. He tied his career-high with seven 3-pointers on 11 attempts and the Pelicans made a franchise-record 25 on 47 attempts (53.2 percent) from beyond the arc.

New Orleans' CJ McCollum added 22 points, rookie Jordan Hawkins had 21, Trey Murphy III scored 18 and Zion Williamson had 13. Hawkins made 6 of 9 3-point tries, Murphy sank 5 of 12 and McCollum hit 4 of 9. LaMelo Ball scored 29 points, Terry Rozier added 25, Miles Bridges had 19 and Nick Richards finished with 10 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Hornets, who lost their sixth straight game and fell for the 17th time in 18 games.

Hawks 106, Magic 104

Dejounte Murray scored 26 points and made an 18-foot jumper at the buzzer to give Atlanta a win over visiting Orlando. Orlando's Paolo Banchero tied the game with nine seconds remaining on a 3-point basket. Atlanta opted to not call its final timeout. Murray dribbled the length of the floor and made a tough shot at the horn. Murray was 11-for-18 from the floor with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Young had 18 points and 12 assists for the Hawks, who won for the second straight time to conclude a 3-2 homestand. Banchero put up 26 points for the Magic, who lost for the fourth time in five games.

Lakers 127, Mavericks 110

Anthony Davis scored 28 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, D'Angelo Russell delivered 29 points and Los Angeles continued its revival with a home victory to spoil the return of Dallas' Luka Doncic.Davis just missed out on his third career triple-double, as he handed out nine assists. LeBron James amassed 25 points, eight rebounds and eight assists as the Lakers improved to 4-2 since Jan. 7. Los Angeles had lost nine of 11 games before the current run of success. Doncic delivered 33 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists for Dallas after missing the previous three games with a sprained right ankle. The Mavericks went 2-1 in the games their All-Star missed. Dereck Lively II scored 16 points for Dallas, but Kyrie Irving was held to 12 points on 4-of-16 shooting after he averaged 39.7 points per game while Doncic was out.

Trail Blazers 105, Nets 103

Anfernee Simons drove through the lane to sink a floater with 0.2 seconds left and give host Portland a victory over Brooklyn. Jerami Grant registered 30 points and eight rebounds and Simons scored 20 points as Portland snapped a four-game losing streak. Duop Reath added 17 points and Malcolm Brogdon had 16 as the Trail Blazers won for just the second time in nine games, with both wins coming against the Nets. Mikal Bridges scored 21 points and Spencer Dinwiddie added 19 points and seven assists for Brooklyn, which has lost four straight games and nine of its past 10.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/los-angeles-clippers-new-arena-to-host-2026-nba-all-star-game-official-681024">Los Angeles Clippers' new arena to host 2026 NBA All-Star Game: Official</a>

Celtics 117, Spurs 98

Jayson Tatum tossed in a team-high 24 points and short-handed Boston made 18 of its 38 3-point attempts en route to a victory over visiting San Antonio. Jrue Holiday finished with 22 points and Jaylen Brown added 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Boston. Holiday made six of his seven shots from beyond the 3-point arc. The victory improved Boston's home record to 20-0. Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 27 points and five rebounds in 27 minutes. He shot 10 of 19 from the field and made 2 of 6 3-point attempts. Devin Vassell scored 21 points for San Antonio, which received nine points and 11 assists from Tre Jones.

Timberwolves 124, Pistons 117

Anthony Edwards scored 27 points and dished eight assists as visiting Minnesota defeated Detroit. Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 27 points as the Western Conference-leading Timberwolves won their third consecutive game. Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels had 23 points, while Rudy Gobert powered for 19 points and 16 rebounds. Naz Reid added nine points off the bench. Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with a career-high-tying 32 points, and he added six assists. Bojan Bogdanovic had 20 points, and Jalen Duren supplied 16 points and 11 rebounds. Isaiah Stewart and Alec Burks put up 12 points apiece.

Cavaliers 135, Bucks 95

Georges Niang scored a career-high 33 points off the bench and Donovan Mitchell added 31 to fuel host Cleveland to a rout of Milwaukee. Niang made 13 of 14 shots from the floor and 5 of 6 attempts from 3-point range to send the Cavaliers to their sixth straight win. Cleveland's Jarrett Allen collected 21 points and 13 rebounds. The Bucks were without superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat due to a right shoulder contusion. Milwaukee's Damian Lillard made 7 of 20 shots from the floor to finish with a team-high 17 points.

Knicks 109, Rockets 94

Jalen Brunson scored 30 points in his return from a calf injury for host New York, which pulled away in the second half to beat Houston. Brunson, who missed the previous two games, added seven assists for the Knicks, who have won seven of nine. Julius Randle led all scorers with 31 points for the Knicks, while Josh Hart contributed 10 points and 14 rebounds off the bench. Fred VanVleet (24 points, 12 assists) and Alperen Sengun (18 points, 10 rebounds) each recorded a double-double for the Rockets, who finished 1-5 on a six-game road trip.

Raptors 121, Heat 97

Gary Trent Jr. scored 28 points, including knocking down eight 3-pointers, to lead Toronto past visiting Miami. RJ Barrett added 26 points for the Raptors, who ended a four-game losing streak. Scottie Barnes had 20 points and Immanuel Quickley scored 17 points. The Raptors led by as many as 37 points and never trailed in the blowout. Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo each scored 16 points for the Heat, whose three-game winning streak ended.

Brandon Ingram had the third triple-double of his career and led a franchise-record 3-point performance as the host New Orleans Pelicans routed the reeling Charlotte Hornets 132-112 on Wednesday night.

Brandon Ingram had the third triple-double of his career and led a franchise-record 3-point performance as the host New Orleans Pelicans routed the reeling Charlotte Hornets 132-112 on Wednesday night. Ingram finished with 28 points, 10 rebounds and 10 assists. He tied his career-high with seven 3-pointers on 11 attempts and the Pelicans made a franchise-record 25 on 47 attempts (53.2 percent) from beyond the arc. New Orleans' CJ McCollum added 22 points, rookie Jordan Hawkins had 21, Trey Murphy III scored 18 and Zion Williamson had 13. Hawkins made 6 of 9 3-point tries, Murphy sank 5 of 12 and McCollum hit 4 of 9. LaMelo Ball scored 29 points, Terry Rozier added 25, Miles Bridges had 19 and Nick Richards finished with 10 points and 12 rebounds to lead the Hornets, who lost their sixth straight game and fell for the 17th time in 18 games. Hawks 106, Magic 104 Dejounte Murray scored 26 points and made an 18-foot jumper at the buzzer to give Atlanta a win over visiting Orlando. Orlando's Paolo Banchero tied the game with nine seconds remaining on a 3-point basket. Atlanta opted to not call its final timeout. Murray dribbled the length of the floor and made a tough shot at the horn. Murray was 11-for-18 from the floor with five rebounds, five assists and two steals. Young had 18 points and 12 assists for the Hawks, who won for the second straight time to conclude a 3-2 homestand. Banchero put up 26 points for the Magic, who lost for the fourth time in five games. Lakers 127, Mavericks 110 Anthony Davis scored 28 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, D'Angelo Russell delivered 29 points and Los Angeles continued its revival with a home victory to spoil the return of Dallas' Luka Doncic.Davis just missed out on his third career triple-double, as he handed out nine assists. LeBron James amassed 25 points, eight rebounds and eight assists as the Lakers improved to 4-2 since Jan. 7. Los Angeles had lost nine of 11 games before the current run of success. Doncic delivered 33 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists for Dallas after missing the previous three games with a sprained right ankle. The Mavericks went 2-1 in the games their All-Star missed. Dereck Lively II scored 16 points for Dallas, but Kyrie Irving was held to 12 points on 4-of-16 shooting after he averaged 39.7 points per game while Doncic was out. Trail Blazers 105, Nets 103 Anfernee Simons drove through the lane to sink a floater with 0.2 seconds left and give host Portland a victory over Brooklyn. Jerami Grant registered 30 points and eight rebounds and Simons scored 20 points as Portland snapped a four-game losing streak. Duop Reath added 17 points and Malcolm Brogdon had 16 as the Trail Blazers won for just the second time in nine games, with both wins coming against the Nets. Mikal Bridges scored 21 points and Spencer Dinwiddie added 19 points and seven assists for Brooklyn, which has lost four straight games and nine of its past 10. Also read: Los Angeles Clippers' new arena to host 2026 NBA All-Star Game: Official Celtics 117, Spurs 98 Jayson Tatum tossed in a team-high 24 points and short-handed Boston made 18 of its 38 3-point attempts en route to a victory over visiting San Antonio. Jrue Holiday finished with 22 points and Jaylen Brown added 21 points, seven rebounds and five assists for Boston. Holiday made six of his seven shots from beyond the 3-point arc. The victory improved Boston's home record to 20-0. Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 27 points and five rebounds in 27 minutes. He shot 10 of 19 from the field and made 2 of 6 3-point attempts. Devin Vassell scored 21 points for San Antonio, which received nine points and 11 assists from Tre Jones. Timberwolves 124, Pistons 117 Anthony Edwards scored 27 points and dished eight assists as visiting Minnesota defeated Detroit. Karl-Anthony Towns also scored 27 points as the Western Conference-leading Timberwolves won their third consecutive game. Minnesota's Jaden McDaniels had 23 points, while Rudy Gobert powered for 19 points and 16 rebounds. Naz Reid added nine points off the bench. Jaden Ivey led the Pistons with a career-high-tying 32 points, and he added six assists. Bojan Bogdanovic had 20 points, and Jalen Duren supplied 16 points and 11 rebounds. Isaiah Stewart and Alec Burks put up 12 points apiece. Cavaliers 135, Bucks 95 Georges Niang scored a career-high 33 points off the bench and Donovan Mitchell added 31 to fuel host Cleveland to a rout of Milwaukee. Niang made 13 of 14 shots from the floor and 5 of 6 attempts from 3-point range to send the Cavaliers to their sixth straight win. Cleveland's Jarrett Allen collected 21 points and 13 rebounds. The Bucks were without superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sat due to a right shoulder contusion. Milwaukee's Damian Lillard made 7 of 20 shots from the floor to finish with a team-high 17 points. Knicks 109, Rockets 94 Jalen Brunson scored 30 points in his return from a calf injury for host New York, which pulled away in the second half to beat Houston. Brunson, who missed the previous two games, added seven assists for the Knicks, who have won seven of nine. Julius Randle led all scorers with 31 points for the Knicks, while Josh Hart contributed 10 points and 14 rebounds off the bench. Fred VanVleet (24 points, 12 assists) and Alperen Sengun (18 points, 10 rebounds) each recorded a double-double for the Rockets, who finished 1-5 on a six-game road trip. Raptors 121, Heat 97 Gary Trent Jr. scored 28 points, including knocking down eight 3-pointers, to lead Toronto past visiting Miami. RJ Barrett added 26 points for the Raptors, who ended a four-game losing streak. Scottie Barnes had 20 points and Immanuel Quickley scored 17 points. The Raptors led by as many as 37 points and never trailed in the blowout. Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo each scored 16 points for the Heat, whose three-game winning streak ended.

NBA roundup: New Orleans Pelicans blast Charlotte Hornets, set 3-point mark

Jaylen Brown scored 32 points and Jayson Tatum added 27 as the Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home, defeating Houston 145-113 on Saturday in former Celtics coach Ime Udoka's return to Boston.

The Celtics improved to an NBA-best 30-9 overall and 19-0 at home, the league's only undefeated club at home stretching its team-record home win streak to start a season.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-exequiel-palacios-scores-late-winner-for-bundesliga-leaders-bayer-leverkusen-679733">Exequiel Palacios scores late winner for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen</a>

Brown, who scored 21 points in the third quarter when the Celtics pulled away to stay, hit 11-of-15 shots from the floor, 4-of-6 from 3-point range, and added six rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocked shots.

"Being aggressive. A lot of times defense gets you going," Brown said of his third-period success. "I get it on the run and when we play like that in transition we're tough to beat."

Udoka guided the Celtics to the 2022 NBA Finals, where they lost to Golden State, but he was suspended just before the start of the 2022-23 season training camp over an improper relationship with a team staffer.

Udoka ultimately was dropped and replaced by former assistant Joe Mazzulla on a permanent basis last February.

"I'm glad to see Ime back coaching on the sidelines," Brown said. "I'm glad to see a lot of the staff we spent time with over there in Houston. I wish those guys the best of luck."

Asked how he reflected on his departure, Udoka said, "Job not finished. The relationships you build and the people you impact, so that would be the biggest thing.

When it came to his regrets, Udoka was equally matter-of-fact.

"The biggest thing I'd say overall is letting some people down, for sure," Udoka said. "But we've talked it out and I've seen a lot of these people throughout the summer and talk regularly and so we move past it."

Mazzulla played down the impact of Udoka's return with the Rockets, who hired him as head coach last April.

"The fact Ime is back is great," he said. "But I don't think that really has anything to do with winning or losing."

Both were important to the Celtics after being thumped 135-102 at Milwaukee on Thursday.

"Last game we didn't feel like we were at our best," Brown said. "We wanted to come out and make sure we stayed undefeated on the home court."

Tatum went 9-of-17, 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, with eight rebounds and five assists for Boston, which also got 19 points from reserve Payton Pritchard.

Reserve Cam Whitmore led Houston with 22 points while Turkish center added 19 for the Rockets, who fell to 19-19.

In Atlanta, the Washington Wizards snapped a six-game losing streak and improved to 7-31 with a 127-99 victory over the Hawks. Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 29 points while Jordan Poole added 20.

The Los Angeles Lakers (19-20) were set to play later at Utah (20-20) without LeBron James.

The 39-year-old superstar missed his fourth game of the season with a left ankle injury. He suffered the setback in a loss Thursday to Phoenix.

Jaylen Brown scored 32 points and Jayson Tatum added 27 as the Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home, defeating Houston 145-113 on Saturday in former Celtics coach Ime Udoka's return to Boston.

Jaylen Brown scored 32 points and Jayson Tatum added 27 as the Boston Celtics remained unbeaten at home, defeating Houston 145-113 on Saturday in former Celtics coach Ime Udoka's return to Boston. The Celtics improved to an NBA-best 30-9 overall and 19-0 at home, the league's only undefeated club at home stretching its team-record home win streak to start a season. Also Read: Exequiel Palacios scores late winner for Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen Brown, who scored 21 points in the third quarter when the Celtics pulled away to stay, hit 11-of-15 shots from the floor, 4-of-6 from 3-point range, and added six rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocked shots. "Being aggressive. A lot of times defense gets you going," Brown said of his third-period success. "I get it on the run and when we play like that in transition we're tough to beat." Udoka guided the Celtics to the 2022 NBA Finals, where they lost to Golden State, but he was suspended just before the start of the 2022-23 season training camp over an improper relationship with a team staffer. Udoka ultimately was dropped and replaced by former assistant Joe Mazzulla on a permanent basis last February. "I'm glad to see Ime back coaching on the sidelines," Brown said. "I'm glad to see a lot of the staff we spent time with over there in Houston. I wish those guys the best of luck." Asked how he reflected on his departure, Udoka said, "Job not finished. The relationships you build and the people you impact, so that would be the biggest thing. When it came to his regrets, Udoka was equally matter-of-fact. "The biggest thing I'd say overall is letting some people down, for sure," Udoka said. "But we've talked it out and I've seen a lot of these people throughout the summer and talk regularly and so we move past it." Mazzulla played down the impact of Udoka's return with the Rockets, who hired him as head coach last April. "The fact Ime is back is great," he said. "But I don't think that really has anything to do with winning or losing." Both were important to the Celtics after being thumped 135-102 at Milwaukee on Thursday. "Last game we didn't feel like we were at our best," Brown said. "We wanted to come out and make sure we stayed undefeated on the home court." Tatum went 9-of-17, 4-of-7 from beyond the arc, with eight rebounds and five assists for Boston, which also got 19 points from reserve Payton Pritchard. Reserve Cam Whitmore led Houston with 22 points while Turkish center added 19 for the Rockets, who fell to 19-19. In Atlanta, the Washington Wizards snapped a six-game losing streak and improved to 7-31 with a 127-99 victory over the Hawks. Kyle Kuzma led the Wizards with 29 points while Jordan Poole added 20. The Los Angeles Lakers (19-20) were set to play later at Utah (20-20) without LeBron James. The 39-year-old superstar missed his fourth game of the season with a left ankle injury. He suffered the setback in a loss Thursday to Phoenix.

Boston Celtics continue unbeaten run at home with win over Houston Rockets

Jayson Tatum scored 25 points and Jaylen Brown added 24 to lead the NBA-best Boston Celtics over San Antonio 134-101 on Sunday, stretching their win streak to six games. Kristaps Porzingis added 14 points and a game-high nine rebounds for the Celtics, who improved to 26-6. Boston also got 17 points from Derrick White, who spent five seasons with San Antonio before joining the Celtics in a 2022 trade. He heard chants of "White's an All-Star" from the Texas fans.

"I've got a lot of respect for the fans here, great memories here," White said. "I'm just thankful." Boston outscored the Spurs 40-23 in the third quarter to pull away for good. "Just had that mindset of third quarter is important and coming out ready to go," White said. "We finished the first half well and kept it going from there."

Tatum made 10-of-17 shots from the floor, 5-of-10 from 3-point range, while Brown went 9-of-13 from the floor, hitting both 3-point attempts, and 4-of-6 from the free throw line. French 19-year-old rookie star center Victor Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4 (2.24m) top pick of the 2023 NBA Draft, scored 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds for the host Spurs, who fell to 5-27.

Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram each scored 26 points and the host New Orleans Pelicans avenged an In-Season Tournament (IST) semi-final loss by ripping the Los Angeles Lakers 129-109.

Ingram also contributed eight assists, five rebounds, three steals and two blocked shots while Williamson added six assists and four rebounds for the Pelicans, who improved to 19-14 with all five starters scoring in double figures.

A day after his 39th birthday, LeBron James led the Lakers with 34 points while adding eight assists and five rebounds. Anthony Davis netted 20 points with 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who&nbsp;humbled the Pelicans 133-89 on their way to the IST crown earlier this month. Japan's Rui Hachimura was sidelined by a calf injury after starting for the Lakers, playing only eight minutes.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-pga-tour-works-to-extend-active-and-productive-saudi-merger-talks-675457">Golf: PGA Tour works to extend 'active and productive' Saudi merger talks</a>

<h2>- Thunder win streak at 4 -</h2>

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a game-high 24 points to lead Oklahoma City over visiting Brooklyn 124-108 for a fourth consecutive triumph. The Canadian guard hit 7-of-15 from the floor and all nine free throws to pace five starters scoring in double figures for the Thunder, who at 22-9 pulled two games back of Western Conference leader Minnesota.

Phoenix's Kevin Durant scored 31 points while Bradley Beal added 25 and Devin Booker had 21 to spark the host Suns over Orlando 112-107. The Magic, paced by Paolo Banchero's 28 points, used a 21-8 rally in the third quarter to erase a Suns lead, but shot only 3-for-13 in the final 7:30 to fall.

"They made us work a little bit harder than we wanted to but that's what we need right now," Beal said after his highest-scoring game since arriving in a deal with Washington. "I'm just trying to figure out my way with the guys. I'm not here to step on any toes but at the same time I'm here for a reason. I've got to be aggressive. I've got to be me. I came out tonight being aggressive and thankfully we got a great win out of it. "We've got to be better on defense, got to clean that up, but we've got some good mojo, some good juices going into the new year."

Trae Young scored 40 points and passed off 13 assists to spark Atlanta's 130-126 triumph at Washington. The Wizards (6-26) had 38 points from Kyle Kuzma in a losing cause. Dejounte Murray had 32 for the Hawks (13-19).

Domantas Sabonis had a triple double with 13 points, 21 rebounds and 12 assists while Malik Monk came off the Sacramento bench to score a game-high 27 points as the Kings won 123-92 at Memphis.

Jayson Tatum scored 25 points and Jaylen Brown added 24 to lead the NBA-best Boston Celtics over San Antonio 134-101 on Sunday, stretching their win streak to six games.

Jayson Tatum scored 25 points and Jaylen Brown added 24 to lead the NBA-best Boston Celtics over San Antonio 134-101 on Sunday, stretching their win streak to six games. Kristaps Porzingis added 14 points and a game-high nine rebounds for the Celtics, who improved to 26-6. Boston also got 17 points from Derrick White, who spent five seasons with San Antonio before joining the Celtics in a 2022 trade. He heard chants of "White's an All-Star" from the Texas fans. "I've got a lot of respect for the fans here, great memories here," White said. "I'm just thankful." Boston outscored the Spurs 40-23 in the third quarter to pull away for good. "Just had that mindset of third quarter is important and coming out ready to go," White said. "We finished the first half well and kept it going from there." Tatum made 10-of-17 shots from the floor, 5-of-10 from 3-point range, while Brown went 9-of-13 from the floor, hitting both 3-point attempts, and 4-of-6 from the free throw line. French 19-year-old rookie star center Victor Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4 (2.24m) top pick of the 2023 NBA Draft, scored 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds for the host Spurs, who fell to 5-27. Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram each scored 26 points and the host New Orleans Pelicans avenged an In-Season Tournament (IST) semi-final loss by ripping the Los Angeles Lakers 129-109. Ingram also contributed eight assists, five rebounds, three steals and two blocked shots while Williamson added six assists and four rebounds for the Pelicans, who improved to 19-14 with all five starters scoring in double figures. A day after his 39th birthday, LeBron James led the Lakers with 34 points while adding eight assists and five rebounds. Anthony Davis netted 20 points with 10 rebounds for the Lakers, who humbled the Pelicans 133-89 on their way to the IST crown earlier this month. Japan's Rui Hachimura was sidelined by a calf injury after starting for the Lakers, playing only eight minutes. Also read: Golf: PGA Tour works to extend 'active and productive' Saudi merger talks - Thunder win streak at 4 - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a game-high 24 points to lead Oklahoma City over visiting Brooklyn 124-108 for a fourth consecutive triumph. The Canadian guard hit 7-of-15 from the floor and all nine free throws to pace five starters scoring in double figures for the Thunder, who at 22-9 pulled two games back of Western Conference leader Minnesota. Phoenix's Kevin Durant scored 31 points while Bradley Beal added 25 and Devin Booker had 21 to spark the host Suns over Orlando 112-107. The Magic, paced by Paolo Banchero's 28 points, used a 21-8 rally in the third quarter to erase a Suns lead, but shot only 3-for-13 in the final 7:30 to fall. "They made us work a little bit harder than we wanted to but that's what we need right now," Beal said after his highest-scoring game since arriving in a deal with Washington. "I'm just trying to figure out my way with the guys. I'm not here to step on any toes but at the same time I'm here for a reason. I've got to be aggressive. I've got to be me. I came out tonight being aggressive and thankfully we got a great win out of it. "We've got to be better on defense, got to clean that up, but we've got some good mojo, some good juices going into the new year." Trae Young scored 40 points and passed off 13 assists to spark Atlanta's 130-126 triumph at Washington. The Wizards (6-26) had 38 points from Kyle Kuzma in a losing cause. Dejounte Murray had 32 for the Hawks (13-19). Domantas Sabonis had a triple double with 13 points, 21 rebounds and 12 assists while Malik Monk came off the Sacramento bench to score a game-high 27 points as the Kings won 123-92 at Memphis.

NBA-best Boston Celtics beat San Antonio Spurs to earn sixth win in a row

Golden State coach Steve Kerr on Thursday backed the NBA's decision to issue an indefinite suspension on Draymond Green, saying the open-ended ban gave the Warriors star a chance to change his ways. Warriors stalwart Green was sanctioned by the NBA on Wednesday after his third ejection of the season on Tuesday, when he was tossed for violently swinging an arm into the head of Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic.

It was just the latest in a long line of incidents that have landed Green in disciplinary hot water over the years, and came just weeks after he was given a five-game ban for grabbing Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock last month. Kerr told reporters on Thursday ahead of the Warriors game with the Los Angeles Clippers that the NBA's indefinite suspension of Green -- a virtually unheard of sanction in the league -- was the appropriate move.

"I think the suspension makes sense," Kerr said. "To me, this is about more than basketball. It's about helping Draymond. "It's an opportunity for Draymond to step away and to make a change in his approach, in his life. And that's not an easy thing to do."

Kerr said the league's five-game suspension of Green after the Gobert incident last month justified the stiffer penalty for this week's latest flashpoint. "You don't just say 'We're going to do five games and he's going to be fine'," Kerr said.&nbsp; "The league did that with five games after the incident with Rudy. That's not the answer, to pick a number.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golden-state-warriors-ace-draymond-green-suspended-indefinitely-over-jusuf-nurkic-clash-nba-669457">Golden State Warriors ace Draymond Green suspended 'indefinitely' over Jusuf Nurkic clash: NBA</a>

<h2>- 'The answer is to help' -</h2>

"The answer is to help Draymond and give him the help he needs, give him the opportunity to make a change that will not only help him and help our team, but help him for the rest of his life." "It's not just about an outburst on the court. This is about his life. Someone who I believe in, someone who I have known for a decade, who I love for his loyalty, his commitment, his passion, his love for his team-mates, his friends and his family.

"We're trying to help that guy. Because the one who choked Rudy, the one who took a wild flail at Jusuf, the one who punched Jordan (Poole) last year, that's the guy who has to change. And he knows that. "Look at the past year and what's happened -- it's clear he needs the opportunity to change. And that's what an indefinite suspension gives him the opportunity for."

Kerr and the Warriors have attracted criticism in the past for how they have handled Green's disciplinary indiscretions, notably when he was only fined by the franchise -- rather than suspended -- for punching team-mate Poole in a pre-season practice last year.

Prominent ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has suggested that Warriors star Steph Curry bears part of the responsibility for not bringing Green into line as a senior member of the Golden State locker room. Kerr however hit back at the criticism of Curry's leadership.&nbsp;

"For anyone to question Steph Curry’s leadership, it's actually kind of sickening," Kerr said. "I saw some of that yesterday. It was disgusting. You're talking about one of the finest human beings I have ever been around.&nbsp; "But that's the climate that we live in ... Like, really? That's the angle you're going to take? You're going to question Steph Curry's leadership?"

Golden State coach Steve Kerr on Thursday backed the NBA's decision to issue an indefinite suspension on Draymond Green, saying the open-ended ban gave the Warriors star a chance to change his ways.

Golden State coach Steve Kerr on Thursday backed the NBA's decision to issue an indefinite suspension on Draymond Green, saying the open-ended ban gave the Warriors star a chance to change his ways. Warriors stalwart Green was sanctioned by the NBA on Wednesday after his third ejection of the season on Tuesday, when he was tossed for violently swinging an arm into the head of Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic. It was just the latest in a long line of incidents that have landed Green in disciplinary hot water over the years, and came just weeks after he was given a five-game ban for grabbing Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock last month. Kerr told reporters on Thursday ahead of the Warriors game with the Los Angeles Clippers that the NBA's indefinite suspension of Green -- a virtually unheard of sanction in the league -- was the appropriate move. "I think the suspension makes sense," Kerr said. "To me, this is about more than basketball. It's about helping Draymond. "It's an opportunity for Draymond to step away and to make a change in his approach, in his life. And that's not an easy thing to do." Kerr said the league's five-game suspension of Green after the Gobert incident last month justified the stiffer penalty for this week's latest flashpoint. "You don't just say 'We're going to do five games and he's going to be fine'," Kerr said. "The league did that with five games after the incident with Rudy. That's not the answer, to pick a number. Also read: Golden State Warriors ace Draymond Green suspended 'indefinitely' over Jusuf Nurkic clash: NBA - 'The answer is to help' - "The answer is to help Draymond and give him the help he needs, give him the opportunity to make a change that will not only help him and help our team, but help him for the rest of his life." "It's not just about an outburst on the court. This is about his life. Someone who I believe in, someone who I have known for a decade, who I love for his loyalty, his commitment, his passion, his love for his team-mates, his friends and his family. "We're trying to help that guy. Because the one who choked Rudy, the one who took a wild flail at Jusuf, the one who punched Jordan (Poole) last year, that's the guy who has to change. And he knows that. "Look at the past year and what's happened -- it's clear he needs the opportunity to change. And that's what an indefinite suspension gives him the opportunity for." Kerr and the Warriors have attracted criticism in the past for how they have handled Green's disciplinary indiscretions, notably when he was only fined by the franchise -- rather than suspended -- for punching team-mate Poole in a pre-season practice last year. Prominent ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has suggested that Warriors star Steph Curry bears part of the responsibility for not bringing Green into line as a senior member of the Golden State locker room. Kerr however hit back at the criticism of Curry's leadership. "For anyone to question Steph Curry’s leadership, it's actually kind of sickening," Kerr said. "I saw some of that yesterday. It was disgusting. You're talking about one of the finest human beings I have ever been around. "But that's the climate that we live in ... Like, really? That's the angle you're going to take? You're going to question Steph Curry's leadership?"

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr says NBA indefinite ban on Draymond Green 'makes sense'

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green has been "suspended indefinitely" following his clash with Phoenix player Jusuf Nurkic that saw him ejected for the third time this season, the NBA said Wednesday. The NBA said in a statement that Green had been handed an open-ended ban given his "repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts," adding that he would be "required to meet certain league and team conditions" before he is allowed to return to play.

An indefinite suspension is an almost unheard of sanction by the NBA, which more commonly issues bans for a fixed number of games.&nbsp; Examples of recent hefty suspensions issued to players include the 25-game ban handed to Memphis's Ja Morant in June after he was seen flashing a gun in an online video, and the 30-game ban given to Charlotte's Miles Bridges over domestic violence allegations.

Green was tossed from the Warriors' 119-116 road defeat against Phoenix on Tuesday after hitting Suns player Jusuf Nurkic in the head to earn a flagrant foul. The four-time NBA champion later apologized to Nurkic, saying he had accidentally struck the Bosnian after swinging his arm to try and win a foul call, believing he had been illegally held back.

"I thought he was pulling my hip, and I was swinging a way to sell the call, and made contact with him," Green said.&nbsp; "As you know, I'm not one to apologize for things I meant to do, but I do apologize to Jusuf because I didn't intend to hit him."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-porto-storm-into-uefa-champions-league-last-16-as-newcastle-united-bow-out-669454">PSG, Porto storm into UEFA Champions League last 16 as Newcastle United bow out</a>

<h2>- 'That brother needs help' -</h2>

Nurkic however was scathing of the incident, saying Green "needs help." "What's going on with him? I don't know,"&nbsp;Nurkic said Tuesday. "Personally, I feel like that brother needs help."

The flashpoint came just weeks after Green was issued a five-game suspension for his second ejection of the season, when he grabbed Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock during the Warriors' defeat to the Timberwolves on November 14.

Green's second suspension of the season is the latest in a long line of brushes with NBA disciplinary chiefs over the years. The 33-year-old, who was also ejected in the Warriors' defeat to Cleveland earlier in November, was also suspended during the playoffs in April after stamping on Sacramento Kings player Domantas Sabonis.

In October 2022, Green escaped a suspension by the Warriors after punching teammate Jordan Poole during a pre-season practice. Warriors coach Steve Kerr later described the incident as the "biggest crisis that we've ever had," but the team decided to levy a fine against Green rather than an in-house suspension.

That incident followed an ejection in Golden State's 2021-2022 playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies after a clash with Brandon Clarke. He was also infamously suspended for game five of the 2016 NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers for a low blow against LeBron James.

The flagrant foul led to a one-game ban and Cleveland, down 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, won at Golden State on the way to capturing the crown in seven games. Warriors coach Kerr however has been one of Green's staunchest defenders over the years, maintaining that the four-time NBA All-Star has been an integral part of the team's success over the past decade.

"I've said many times we don't have a single championship without Draymond Green," Kerr said earlier this year.&nbsp;"That's the truth. He's crossed the line over the years, and that's part of it, you know. We will go to bat for Draymond, and go to battle with him every day of the week."

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green has been "suspended indefinitely" following his clash with Phoenix player Jusuf Nurkic that saw him ejected for the third time this season, the NBA said Wednesday.

Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green has been "suspended indefinitely" following his clash with Phoenix player Jusuf Nurkic that saw him ejected for the third time this season, the NBA said Wednesday. The NBA said in a statement that Green had been handed an open-ended ban given his "repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts," adding that he would be "required to meet certain league and team conditions" before he is allowed to return to play. An indefinite suspension is an almost unheard of sanction by the NBA, which more commonly issues bans for a fixed number of games. Examples of recent hefty suspensions issued to players include the 25-game ban handed to Memphis's Ja Morant in June after he was seen flashing a gun in an online video, and the 30-game ban given to Charlotte's Miles Bridges over domestic violence allegations. Green was tossed from the Warriors' 119-116 road defeat against Phoenix on Tuesday after hitting Suns player Jusuf Nurkic in the head to earn a flagrant foul. The four-time NBA champion later apologized to Nurkic, saying he had accidentally struck the Bosnian after swinging his arm to try and win a foul call, believing he had been illegally held back. "I thought he was pulling my hip, and I was swinging a way to sell the call, and made contact with him," Green said. "As you know, I'm not one to apologize for things I meant to do, but I do apologize to Jusuf because I didn't intend to hit him." Also read: PSG, Porto storm into UEFA Champions League last 16 as Newcastle United bow out - 'That brother needs help' - Nurkic however was scathing of the incident, saying Green "needs help." "What's going on with him? I don't know," Nurkic said Tuesday. "Personally, I feel like that brother needs help." The flashpoint came just weeks after Green was issued a five-game suspension for his second ejection of the season, when he grabbed Minnesota's Rudy Gobert in a headlock during the Warriors' defeat to the Timberwolves on November 14. Green's second suspension of the season is the latest in a long line of brushes with NBA disciplinary chiefs over the years. The 33-year-old, who was also ejected in the Warriors' defeat to Cleveland earlier in November, was also suspended during the playoffs in April after stamping on Sacramento Kings player Domantas Sabonis. In October 2022, Green escaped a suspension by the Warriors after punching teammate Jordan Poole during a pre-season practice. Warriors coach Steve Kerr later described the incident as the "biggest crisis that we've ever had," but the team decided to levy a fine against Green rather than an in-house suspension. That incident followed an ejection in Golden State's 2021-2022 playoff series against the Memphis Grizzlies after a clash with Brandon Clarke. He was also infamously suspended for game five of the 2016 NBA Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers for a low blow against LeBron James. The flagrant foul led to a one-game ban and Cleveland, down 3-1 in the best-of-seven series, won at Golden State on the way to capturing the crown in seven games. Warriors coach Kerr however has been one of Green's staunchest defenders over the years, maintaining that the four-time NBA All-Star has been an integral part of the team's success over the past decade. "I've said many times we don't have a single championship without Draymond Green," Kerr said earlier this year. "That's the truth. He's crossed the line over the years, and that's part of it, you know. We will go to bat for Draymond, and go to battle with him every day of the week."

Golden State Warriors ace Draymond Green suspended 'indefinitely' over Jusuf Nurkic clash: NBA

Giannis Antetokounmpo erupted for a career-high 64 points as the Milwaukee Bucks avenged last week's in-season tournament exit to the Indiana Pacers with an ill-tempered 140-126 victory on Wednesday. Former NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo was in scintillating form, shooting 20-of-28 from the field with 14 rebounds, three assists and four steals as the clash between the two highest-scoring teams in the NBA lived up to its billing.

Milwaukee were dumped out of the in-season tournament semi-finals in Las Vegas last week by the Pacers and were clearly determined to avoid a repeat of that loss before their home crowd at the Fiserv Forum. The simmering tension between the teams boiled over in the fourth quarter when Indiana's Aaron Nesmith wrapped an arm around Antetokounmpo's neck as he drove for the basket.&nbsp;

Milwaukee's Bobby Portis flew in to defend his team-mate before being dragged away in an ugly melee that involved officials and coaching staff from both benches. The acrimony flared again after the final buzzer, with Antetokounmpo and other Milwaukee players racing off the court to confront members of the Pacers team.

Antetokounmpo, whose 64 points marked a franchise record, later re-emerged back onto the court to remonstrate with Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said the post-game fracas was triggered over a misunderstanding about the game-ball, snaffled by the Pacers after their Congolese rookie Oscar Tshiebwe scored his first NBA point off the bench.

"We were not thinking about Giannis's franchise record so we grabbed the ball and a couple of minutes later several of their players ended up in our hallway," Carlisle said. "There was a big fracas, melee whatever. I don't think any punches landed but our general manager got an elbow in the ribs from one of their players. "Unfortunate situation. It didn't need to escalate to that.&nbsp;

"Third time we've played these guys in the past two to three weeks so things are heated and I understand all that. But for it to come into the hallway -– it didn't need to happen that way."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golden-state-warriors-ace-draymond-green-suspended-indefinitely-over-jusuf-nurkic-clash-nba-669457">Golden State Warriors ace Draymond Green suspended 'indefinitely' over Jusuf Nurkic clash: NBA</a>

<h2>- Wemby rally falls short -</h2>

Elsewhere, Anthony Davis scored 37 points as the Los Angeles Lakers held off a dazzling late rally led by French prodigy Victor Wembanyama to edge past the San Antonio Spurs 122-119. The Lakers, missing LeBron James after Tuesday’s defeat in Phoenix, looked to be cruising after leading for almost the entire game and opening up a 20-point advantage early in the fourth quarter at San Antonio's Frost Bank Center.

But a stunning fightback by the home team -– who erupted for 45 points in the final quarter -– left the Lakers clinging on towards the end of regulation before they eventually scraped home. Number one draft pick Wembanyama, denied his much-hoped-for match-up with James, excelled down the stretch with 14 points including two back-to-back three-pointers and a free throw that helped San Antonio get to within one point with 22 seconds remaining.

The San Antonio rally fell just short however, with Davis nailing four straight free throws to give the Lakers a five-point cushion in the closing seconds, effectively sealing the game. Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA this season being hailed as a once-in-a-generation talent, finished with 30 points, 13 rebounds, three steals and six blocks, earning admiration from Lakers linchpin Davis.

"Obviously there's a lot of pressure on him, No.1 pick," said Davis. "But he can play. He's been struggling a little bit but he showed up tonight... he's one of them ones -– a generational talent. It was fun going against him tonight."

Wembanyama received offensive support from Keldon Johnson with 28 points, while Malaki Branham added 19 points as San Antonio fell to a franchise record-extending 18th straight defeat. The Lakers improved to 15-10 to remain in fifth place in the Western Conference. In other games, reigning MVP Joel Embiid bagged 41 points in Philadelphia's 129-111 drubbing of the hapless Detroit Pistons (2-2-22).

Giannis Antetokounmpo erupted for a career-high 64 points as the Milwaukee Bucks avenged last week's in-season tournament exit to the Indiana Pacers with an ill-tempered 140-126 victory on Wednesday.

Giannis Antetokounmpo erupted for a career-high 64 points as the Milwaukee Bucks avenged last week's in-season tournament exit to the Indiana Pacers with an ill-tempered 140-126 victory on Wednesday. Former NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo was in scintillating form, shooting 20-of-28 from the field with 14 rebounds, three assists and four steals as the clash between the two highest-scoring teams in the NBA lived up to its billing. Milwaukee were dumped out of the in-season tournament semi-finals in Las Vegas last week by the Pacers and were clearly determined to avoid a repeat of that loss before their home crowd at the Fiserv Forum. The simmering tension between the teams boiled over in the fourth quarter when Indiana's Aaron Nesmith wrapped an arm around Antetokounmpo's neck as he drove for the basket. Milwaukee's Bobby Portis flew in to defend his team-mate before being dragged away in an ugly melee that involved officials and coaching staff from both benches. The acrimony flared again after the final buzzer, with Antetokounmpo and other Milwaukee players racing off the court to confront members of the Pacers team. Antetokounmpo, whose 64 points marked a franchise record, later re-emerged back onto the court to remonstrate with Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said the post-game fracas was triggered over a misunderstanding about the game-ball, snaffled by the Pacers after their Congolese rookie Oscar Tshiebwe scored his first NBA point off the bench. "We were not thinking about Giannis's franchise record so we grabbed the ball and a couple of minutes later several of their players ended up in our hallway," Carlisle said. "There was a big fracas, melee whatever. I don't think any punches landed but our general manager got an elbow in the ribs from one of their players. "Unfortunate situation. It didn't need to escalate to that. "Third time we've played these guys in the past two to three weeks so things are heated and I understand all that. But for it to come into the hallway -– it didn't need to happen that way." Also read: Golden State Warriors ace Draymond Green suspended 'indefinitely' over Jusuf Nurkic clash: NBA - Wemby rally falls short - Elsewhere, Anthony Davis scored 37 points as the Los Angeles Lakers held off a dazzling late rally led by French prodigy Victor Wembanyama to edge past the San Antonio Spurs 122-119. The Lakers, missing LeBron James after Tuesday’s defeat in Phoenix, looked to be cruising after leading for almost the entire game and opening up a 20-point advantage early in the fourth quarter at San Antonio's Frost Bank Center. But a stunning fightback by the home team -– who erupted for 45 points in the final quarter -– left the Lakers clinging on towards the end of regulation before they eventually scraped home. Number one draft pick Wembanyama, denied his much-hoped-for match-up with James, excelled down the stretch with 14 points including two back-to-back three-pointers and a free throw that helped San Antonio get to within one point with 22 seconds remaining. The San Antonio rally fell just short however, with Davis nailing four straight free throws to give the Lakers a five-point cushion in the closing seconds, effectively sealing the game. Wembanyama, who arrived in the NBA this season being hailed as a once-in-a-generation talent, finished with 30 points, 13 rebounds, three steals and six blocks, earning admiration from Lakers linchpin Davis. "Obviously there's a lot of pressure on him, No.1 pick," said Davis. "But he can play. He's been struggling a little bit but he showed up tonight... he's one of them ones -– a generational talent. It was fun going against him tonight." Wembanyama received offensive support from Keldon Johnson with 28 points, while Malaki Branham added 19 points as San Antonio fell to a franchise record-extending 18th straight defeat. The Lakers improved to 15-10 to remain in fifth place in the Western Conference. In other games, reigning MVP Joel Embiid bagged 41 points in Philadelphia's 129-111 drubbing of the hapless Detroit Pistons (2-2-22).

NBA: Giannis Antetokounmpo scores 64 in stormy Bucks win, Lakers down Spurs

Tyrese Haliburton scored 27 points to propel the Indiana Pacers to a 128-119 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday and into the title match of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament. Haliburton added 15 assists, without a turnover, and Myles Turner scored 26 points and pulled down 10 rebounds as the Pacers remained unbeaten in the tournament.

Indiana, sixth in the Eastern Conference regular-season standings, had knocked out the East-leading Boston Celtics in the quarter-finals and followed up with another scintillating showing against the 2021 NBA champion Bucks, who were led by 37 points and 10 rebounds from two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo.

In Saturday's final in Las Vegas the Pacers take on the winner of the Western Conference semi-final between LeBron James's Los Angeles Lakers and Zion Williamson's New Orleans Pelicans. The tournament has been a coming-out party for Haliburton and the Pacers, who came into Thursday's game averaging more than 128 points per game but whose NBA title hopes have been largely discounted.

"I think this was the whole point of the in-season tournament, to see a young group like ourselves compete and come out here and fight," Haliburton said. "I think we're shocking the world right now. Nobody expected us to be here except for the guys in the locker room."

In a game that featured 16 lead changes -- seven of them in the fourth quarter -- the Pacers got the stops they needed to hold off a Bucks team that scored 146 points in their quarter-final win over the New York Knicks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-masters-champion-jon-rahm-jumps-from-pga-tour-to-liv-golf-in-big-money-move-667408">Golf: Masters champion Jon Rahm jumps from PGA Tour to LIV Golf in big-money move</a>

The Bucks appeared to take control when they out-scored the Pacers 43-28 in the third quarter to take a 94-91 lead into the final period. Damian Lillard, who scored just four points in the first half, scored 20 in the second for Milwaukee.

But in a nip-and-tuck fourth, Turner's put-back layup gave the Pacers a 115-112 lead with 2:19 to play. Haliburton pushed the lead to 119-114 with a driving layup. He drilled a step-back three-pointer that put the Pacers up 122-114 with 49.5 seconds left.

Racing back up court, Haliburton pointed to his wrist where a watch would be, an imitation of Lillard's longtime "Dame Time" celebration. "For as many times as I've done it to people, I can't be upset when somebody else does it," Lillard said. "I respected it."

After the game, Haliburton said his message was that it was the Pacers' time. The in-season tournament, conceived to add excitement to the early stages of the long NBA season, has proved the perfect showcase for the high-octane Pacers, who have never won an NBA title.

"We're in an inaugural championship game," Haliburton said. "That's going to go down in history. It's a lot of fun for us. But we didn't just come here to play one game, play in two games, compete. "We came here to win."

Tyrese Haliburton scored 27 points to propel the Indiana Pacers to a 128-119 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday and into the title match of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament.

Tyrese Haliburton scored 27 points to propel the Indiana Pacers to a 128-119 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday and into the title match of the inaugural NBA in-season tournament. Haliburton added 15 assists, without a turnover, and Myles Turner scored 26 points and pulled down 10 rebounds as the Pacers remained unbeaten in the tournament. Indiana, sixth in the Eastern Conference regular-season standings, had knocked out the East-leading Boston Celtics in the quarter-finals and followed up with another scintillating showing against the 2021 NBA champion Bucks, who were led by 37 points and 10 rebounds from two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Giannis Antetokounmpo. In Saturday's final in Las Vegas the Pacers take on the winner of the Western Conference semi-final between LeBron James's Los Angeles Lakers and Zion Williamson's New Orleans Pelicans. The tournament has been a coming-out party for Haliburton and the Pacers, who came into Thursday's game averaging more than 128 points per game but whose NBA title hopes have been largely discounted. "I think this was the whole point of the in-season tournament, to see a young group like ourselves compete and come out here and fight," Haliburton said. "I think we're shocking the world right now. Nobody expected us to be here except for the guys in the locker room." In a game that featured 16 lead changes -- seven of them in the fourth quarter -- the Pacers got the stops they needed to hold off a Bucks team that scored 146 points in their quarter-final win over the New York Knicks. Also read: Golf: Masters champion Jon Rahm jumps from PGA Tour to LIV Golf in big-money move The Bucks appeared to take control when they out-scored the Pacers 43-28 in the third quarter to take a 94-91 lead into the final period. Damian Lillard, who scored just four points in the first half, scored 20 in the second for Milwaukee. But in a nip-and-tuck fourth, Turner's put-back layup gave the Pacers a 115-112 lead with 2:19 to play. Haliburton pushed the lead to 119-114 with a driving layup. He drilled a step-back three-pointer that put the Pacers up 122-114 with 49.5 seconds left. Racing back up court, Haliburton pointed to his wrist where a watch would be, an imitation of Lillard's longtime "Dame Time" celebration. "For as many times as I've done it to people, I can't be upset when somebody else does it," Lillard said. "I respected it." After the game, Haliburton said his message was that it was the Pacers' time. The in-season tournament, conceived to add excitement to the early stages of the long NBA season, has proved the perfect showcase for the high-octane Pacers, who have never won an NBA title. "We're in an inaugural championship game," Haliburton said. "That's going to go down in history. It's a lot of fun for us. But we didn't just come here to play one game, play in two games, compete. "We came here to win."

Upstart Indiana Pacers topple Milwaukee Bucks to storm into NBA Cup final

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph. De'Aaron Fox matched his career high with 43 points, adding eight rebounds and seven assists for the Kings, who weathered a series of San Antonio scoring spurts to seal the win.

After scoring just eight points in a 36-point loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Wembanyama scored 27 points and pulled down nine rebounds. Wembanyama impressed with an array of shots that included an alley-oop dunk on which his head threatened to hit the backboard. Zach Collins scored 28 for the Spurs, who roared to an 18-point lead in the first quarter but couldn't keep pace in a fourth quarter that saw Fox deliver 14 points as Wembanyama was held to six. A game of multiple momentum shifts saw the Spurs close within 112-111 midway through the fourth, but the Kings responded with a 7-0 scoring run and held on.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-manchester-united-manager-erik-ten-hag-vows-full-support-to-struggling-rashford-665659">Premier League: Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag vows full support to struggling Rashford</a>

Now 3-9, the Spurs fell to 0-3 in group play in the league's new Cup-style tournament -- out of the running for a quarter-final berth. In other tournament games on Friday -- which also count in the regular-season standings -- Zion Williamson scored 26 points and the New Orleans Pelicans withstood a Nikola Jokic triple-double in a 115-110 victory over the NBA champion Denver Nuggets.

Brandon Ingram added 21 points for New Orleans. He and Williamson each made a pair of buckets in an 8-0 scoring run that saw the Pelicans pull away after Denver closed within one point with 4:01 to play. Jokic scored 26 points, pulled down 16 rebounds and matched his career high with 18 assists.

The Nuggets, still without injured Jamal Murray, never led. But they battled back from a 20-point third-quarter deficit to give themselves a chance in the final period. Down by three with less than a minute remaining, the Nuggets came up empty on three straight three-point attempts on the same possession and the Pelicans escaped with the win. In Toronto, Boston guard Derrick White drained a go-ahead three-pointer with 27.5 seconds left as the Celtics held off the hard-charging Raptors 108-105.

Jaylen Brown scored 23 points, Jayson Tatum added 17 and Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Celtics, who are 2-0 in tournament play and improved to 10-2 in the regular season standings -- still leading the Eastern Conference by one game from the Philadelphia 76ers, who beat the Atlanta Hawks 126-116. Pascal Siakam and Dennis Schroder scored 23 points apiece for the Raptors. Scottie Barnes had a chance to tie it with 11.4 seconds left but couldn't get his three-pointer to drop.

In Atlanta, 76ers star Joel Embiid -- questionable to start because of a sore hip -- scored 32 points and grabbed seven rebounds.Tobias Harris added a season-high 29 points and 10 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey finished with 19 points for Philadelphia, who ended a two-game losing streak.

<h2>Bridges returns&nbsp;</h2>

In Charlotte, Milwaukee's Damian Lillard scored 27 points to lead seven Bucks players in double figures in a 130-99 victory over the Hornets. Malik Beasley added 20 points and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a one-game injury absence to score 16 points with eight rebounds and nine assists in Milwaukee's third-straight victory.

The Bucks connected on 22 of 45 three-pointers to withstand a 37-point night from Charlotte's LaMelo Ball. Miles Bridges came off the bench for Charlotte and scored 17 points in his first NBA game since April 2022.

Bridges missed all of last season and was suspended 10 games to start this season after pleading no contest in a felony domestic violence incident last year. The Bucks out-scored the Hornets 38-18 in the fourth quarter, and Lillard said it was important to keep the pressure on. Both teams are 2-0 in tournament play, and scoring margins could come into play in deciding who advances to the knockout stages of the new tournament. "We had to keep our foot on the gas tonight," he said. "I think that's good for our mentality."

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph.

Star rookie Victor Wembanyama put on a show, but his San Antonio Spurs slumped to a seventh straight defeat on Friday, with the Sacramento Kings knocking them out of the NBA's new in-season tournament with a 129-120 triumph. De'Aaron Fox matched his career high with 43 points, adding eight rebounds and seven assists for the Kings, who weathered a series of San Antonio scoring spurts to seal the win. After scoring just eight points in a 36-point loss to Oklahoma City on Tuesday, Wembanyama scored 27 points and pulled down nine rebounds. Wembanyama impressed with an array of shots that included an alley-oop dunk on which his head threatened to hit the backboard. Zach Collins scored 28 for the Spurs, who roared to an 18-point lead in the first quarter but couldn't keep pace in a fourth quarter that saw Fox deliver 14 points as Wembanyama was held to six. A game of multiple momentum shifts saw the Spurs close within 112-111 midway through the fourth, but the Kings responded with a 7-0 scoring run and held on. Also Read: Premier League: Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag vows full support to struggling Rashford Now 3-9, the Spurs fell to 0-3 in group play in the league's new Cup-style tournament -- out of the running for a quarter-final berth. In other tournament games on Friday -- which also count in the regular-season standings -- Zion Williamson scored 26 points and the New Orleans Pelicans withstood a Nikola Jokic triple-double in a 115-110 victory over the NBA champion Denver Nuggets. Brandon Ingram added 21 points for New Orleans. He and Williamson each made a pair of buckets in an 8-0 scoring run that saw the Pelicans pull away after Denver closed within one point with 4:01 to play. Jokic scored 26 points, pulled down 16 rebounds and matched his career high with 18 assists. The Nuggets, still without injured Jamal Murray, never led. But they battled back from a 20-point third-quarter deficit to give themselves a chance in the final period. Down by three with less than a minute remaining, the Nuggets came up empty on three straight three-point attempts on the same possession and the Pelicans escaped with the win. In Toronto, Boston guard Derrick White drained a go-ahead three-pointer with 27.5 seconds left as the Celtics held off the hard-charging Raptors 108-105. Jaylen Brown scored 23 points, Jayson Tatum added 17 and Kristaps Porzingis chipped in 14 points and 12 rebounds for the Celtics, who are 2-0 in tournament play and improved to 10-2 in the regular season standings -- still leading the Eastern Conference by one game from the Philadelphia 76ers, who beat the Atlanta Hawks 126-116. Pascal Siakam and Dennis Schroder scored 23 points apiece for the Raptors. Scottie Barnes had a chance to tie it with 11.4 seconds left but couldn't get his three-pointer to drop. In Atlanta, 76ers star Joel Embiid -- questionable to start because of a sore hip -- scored 32 points and grabbed seven rebounds.Tobias Harris added a season-high 29 points and 10 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey finished with 19 points for Philadelphia, who ended a two-game losing streak. Bridges returns In Charlotte, Milwaukee's Damian Lillard scored 27 points to lead seven Bucks players in double figures in a 130-99 victory over the Hornets. Malik Beasley added 20 points and Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo returned from a one-game injury absence to score 16 points with eight rebounds and nine assists in Milwaukee's third-straight victory. The Bucks connected on 22 of 45 three-pointers to withstand a 37-point night from Charlotte's LaMelo Ball. Miles Bridges came off the bench for Charlotte and scored 17 points in his first NBA game since April 2022. Bridges missed all of last season and was suspended 10 games to start this season after pleading no contest in a felony domestic violence incident last year. The Bucks out-scored the Hornets 38-18 in the fourth quarter, and Lillard said it was important to keep the pressure on. Both teams are 2-0 in tournament play, and scoring margins could come into play in deciding who advances to the knockout stages of the new tournament. "We had to keep our foot on the gas tonight," he said. "I think that's good for our mentality."

Sacramento Kings knock out San Antonio Spurs in NBA Tournament, despite Victor Wembanyama's good performance

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, who said this week the new tournament gave "more juice" to early-season games, scored 22 of his 37 points in the third quarter as the Pacers erased a 20-point first-half deficit.

In the fourth quarter it was Buddy Hield who stepped up, scoring 13 of his 24 points as the Pacers came out on top of a furious back-and-forth finish. "It's good to clinch," Haliburton -- who also handed out 16 assists -- said after the Pacers improved to 3-0 in tournament play and locked up first place in East's Group A. "Buddy won us the game down the stretch, a lot of big buckets."

Hield's three-pointer put Indiana up 152-150 with 1:20 remaining. After Saddiq Bey pulled Atlanta level with a layup, Hield drained another three-pointer for a 155-152 Pacers lead with less than a minute to go. Hield capped the outrageous scoring with an alley-oop dunk with five-tenths of a second remaining.

Hield connected on nine of 11 from the field and made all six of his three-point attempts. Obi Toppin scored 21 points off the bench for Indiana and Bennedict Mathurin added 19. Trae Young scored 38 points to lead the Hawks, who led by 20 in the second quarter. In later games, the Los Angeles Lakers had a chance to punch their ticket to the knockout rounds, and claim home court advantage in the quarter-finals, with a victory over the Utah Jazz.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-watch--lebron-360-layup-in-lakers-vs-rockets-sends-internet-in-frenzy-665632">WATCH | LeBron 360 layup in Lakers vs Rockets sends internet in frenzy</a>

A road win for the Jazz, coupled with a loss for Phoenix against Portland, would see Utah advance. The quarter-finals will be played December 4-5, with winners advancing to semi-final games on December 7 and a championship match on December 9 in Las Vegas.

It was a tight finish in Philadelphia, where Darius Garland scored 32 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 122-119 overtime victory over the 76ers that kept alive the Cavs' hopes of advancing in the tournament via a wild card berth. Jarrett Allen scored 26 points and pulled down 13 rebounds while Max Strus made five three-pointers on the way to 20 points for the Cavs, who came through despite again playing without injured Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey added 30 points for Philadelphia, but the 76ers were eliminated from tournament contention.

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament.

The Indiana Pacers beat the Atlanta Hawks 157-152 in a rollicking NBA shootout on Tuesday to become the first team to reach the knockout stage of the league's new in-season tournament. Indiana's Tyrese Haliburton, who said this week the new tournament gave "more juice" to early-season games, scored 22 of his 37 points in the third quarter as the Pacers erased a 20-point first-half deficit. In the fourth quarter it was Buddy Hield who stepped up, scoring 13 of his 24 points as the Pacers came out on top of a furious back-and-forth finish. "It's good to clinch," Haliburton -- who also handed out 16 assists -- said after the Pacers improved to 3-0 in tournament play and locked up first place in East's Group A. "Buddy won us the game down the stretch, a lot of big buckets." Hield's three-pointer put Indiana up 152-150 with 1:20 remaining. After Saddiq Bey pulled Atlanta level with a layup, Hield drained another three-pointer for a 155-152 Pacers lead with less than a minute to go. Hield capped the outrageous scoring with an alley-oop dunk with five-tenths of a second remaining. Hield connected on nine of 11 from the field and made all six of his three-point attempts. Obi Toppin scored 21 points off the bench for Indiana and Bennedict Mathurin added 19. Trae Young scored 38 points to lead the Hawks, who led by 20 in the second quarter. In later games, the Los Angeles Lakers had a chance to punch their ticket to the knockout rounds, and claim home court advantage in the quarter-finals, with a victory over the Utah Jazz. Also Read: WATCH | LeBron 360 layup in Lakers vs Rockets sends internet in frenzy A road win for the Jazz, coupled with a loss for Phoenix against Portland, would see Utah advance. The quarter-finals will be played December 4-5, with winners advancing to semi-final games on December 7 and a championship match on December 9 in Las Vegas. It was a tight finish in Philadelphia, where Darius Garland scored 32 points to lead the Cleveland Cavaliers to a 122-119 overtime victory over the 76ers that kept alive the Cavs' hopes of advancing in the tournament via a wild card berth. Jarrett Allen scored 26 points and pulled down 13 rebounds while Max Strus made five three-pointers on the way to 20 points for the Cavs, who came through despite again playing without injured Donovan Mitchell and Caris LeVert. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Joel Embiid scored 32 points and grabbed 13 rebounds and Tyrese Maxey added 30 points for Philadelphia, but the 76ers were eliminated from tournament contention.

Indiana Pacers defeat Atlanta Hawks, become first team to reach knockout stage of NBA's new tournament

Milwaukee&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;superstar Giannis&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;has agreed to a three-year contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;worth $186 million, multiple US media&nbsp;reports&nbsp;said on Monday (Oct 23). Antetokounmpo's&nbsp;new deal will see him remain with the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season.

Antetokounmpo's new deal gives him an option to remain with the club in the 2027-2028 campaign, but he can enter free agency in July 2027, at the age of 32. Antetokounmpo&nbsp;confirmed his contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;in a post on social media without giving details of the new deal.

"MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!! Let's get it!!!!...#Extended,"&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

The Greek&nbsp;star&nbsp;has spent the entirety of his NBA career with Milwaukee since being drafted by the franchise in 2013 as the 15th overall pick. The 28-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in basketball, guiding the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;to the NBA Finals in 2021.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2023%3Anewsml_KBN31J04S%3A4&amp;search=all%3Abasketball%20game">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-everton-submits-appeal-against-punishment-over-ffp-rules-breach-665161">Premier League: Everton submits appeal against punishment over FFP rules breach</a>

As recently as the&nbsp;Bucks' preseason media day earlier this month,&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;said he was in no hurry to sign a contract&nbsp;extension&nbsp;before 2024, noting that he wanted to be certain the franchise remained committed to going for titles.

"I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career -- as long as we are winning. It's as simple as that,"&nbsp;Antetokounmpo&nbsp;said on October 2.

His decision to extend now is effectively a vote of confidence in the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;front office, which scored the biggest deal of the offseason after successfully trading for Portland&nbsp;star&nbsp;Damian Lillard in September. Antetokounmpo's new deal runs through the duration of Lillard's contract with the club.

The&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;open their 2023-2024 season on Thursday when they host the Philadelphia 76ers.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $186 million, multiple US media reports said on Monday (Oct 23).

Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo has agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $186 million, multiple US media reports said on Monday (Oct 23). Antetokounmpo's new deal will see him remain with the Bucks until at least the end of the 2026-2027 season. Antetokounmpo's new deal gives him an option to remain with the club in the 2027-2028 campaign, but he can enter free agency in July 2027, at the age of 32. Antetokounmpo confirmed his contract extension in a post on social media without giving details of the new deal. "MILWAUKEEEEEEEEE!! Let's get it!!!!...#Extended," Antetokounmpo wrote on X, formerly Twitter. The Greek star has spent the entirety of his NBA career with Milwaukee since being drafted by the franchise in 2013 as the 15th overall pick. The 28-year-old is regarded as one of the best players in basketball, guiding the Bucks to the NBA Finals in 2021. Also Read: Premier League: Everton submits appeal against punishment over FFP rules breach As recently as the Bucks' preseason media day earlier this month, Antetokounmpo said he was in no hurry to sign a contract extension before 2024, noting that he wanted to be certain the franchise remained committed to going for titles. "I want to be a Milwaukee Buck for the rest of my career -- as long as we are winning. It's as simple as that," Antetokounmpo said on October 2. His decision to extend now is effectively a vote of confidence in the Bucks front office, which scored the biggest deal of the offseason after successfully trading for Portland star Damian Lillard in September. Antetokounmpo's new deal runs through the duration of Lillard's contract with the club. The Bucks open their 2023-2024 season on Thursday when they host the Philadelphia 76ers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Giannis Antetokounmpo agrees to three-year extension with Milwaukee Bucks

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago.

The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/nba/news-nba-sore-hip-sidelines-san-antonios-victor-wembanyama-for-first-time-in-career-665303">NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career</a>

More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached.

<h2>Lifelong dream</h2>

"Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said.&nbsp; "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache."

Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal."

"I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio.&nbsp;"I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said.&nbsp;

"It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama&nbsp;averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills.

"I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said.&nbsp; Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court.&nbsp;

"In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday.

"It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable.&nbsp;"The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks.

French teenager Victor Wembanyama admitted to having "butterflies" on Tuesday as he prepared to make his regular season NBA debut for the San Antonio Spurs. The gifted number-one draft pick will be the center of attention across the league on Wednesday when he takes to the court in San Antonio's home game against the Dallas Mavericks. The talented 19-year-old is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation player, tipped to have the same kind of impact on the NBA that LeBron James had when he landed in the league 20 years ago. The sprawling Texas metropolis of San Antonio has quickly embraced Wembanyama, with murals devoted to the rising star popping up across the city since his selection in the NBA Draft in June. San Antonio sandwich shops have named snacks after the teenager, while one mariachi band in the city has even dedicated a song to Wembanyama. Also Read: NBA: Sore hip sidelines San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama for first time in career More than 13,000 fans turned up to a Spurs pre-season practice to watch him while NBA executives say the Frenchman has attracted 95 million views across the league's social media channels during the offseason -- more than any other player in the league. Wembanyama has taken the soaring hype in his stride, showing no sign of stage fright in a series of sparkling pre-season performances for San Antonio. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday on the eve of his debut, the 7ft 4in (2.25m) tall teenager acknowledged some nervous excitement as his personal D-Day approached. Lifelong dream "Some butterflies in my stomach, like I have before every match, depending on what's at stake," Wembanyama said. "But it's not like I'm shaking either -- just a little stomach ache." Wembanyama's debut will be the realization of a lifelong dream for the Frenchman, who said he had been thinking about playing in the NBA for "as long as I have memories." While pre-season had given him a taste of what to expect in the NBA, Wembanyama said making his regular season start still felt "unreal." "I thought a month ago that some pre-season games would prepare me for this moment, but it's totally different," said Wembanyama, who has set himself a goal of winning "as many titles as I can" with San Antonio. "I know it's something you don't easily do, most players have a career and never make it to the finals, or win championships," Wembanyama said. "It's one of my biggest goals in life so I know I'm gonna reach this, one day or the other. I'm dedicating the next I don't know how many years of my life to reach this. I'm ready to sacrifice anything." Wembanyama averaged just over 19 points a game in four pre-season appearances for San Antonio, but believes he still has not demonstrated the full range of his skills. "I know nobody has seen my best so far," he said. Wembanyama revealed he had been on a steep learning curve since starting training with San Antonio, receiving insights to play at both ends of the court. "In defense I've been in a role that I never had before. I love learning," he said. "I'm really excited, it's promising. We've learned quicker than I expected. Possibilities in defense are endless with this team." Wembanyama's growing legion of admirers includes Mavericks star Luka Doncic, who will go head-to-head with the teenager on Wednesday. "It's pretty crazy what he does on the court," Doncic said of Wembanyama on Tuesday. "What is he? Two meters (tall)? The things he does for that length, it's unbelievable. "The way he moves, the way he handles the ball, shoots the ball, and obviously the blocking. So, I've been watching, and he's an amazing player."

NBA: French sensation Victor Wembanyama admits having butterflies ahead of San Antonio Spurs debut

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country. Yao, the chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association, soared to stardom in the United States as the eight-time All-Star for the Houston Rockets, an affable, 7-foot, 6-inch NBA big man who dominated the league before retiring in 2011.

Yao propelled the league's popularity in his home country but relations between China and the NBA have not always been smooth. Chinese broadcasters stopped airing Rockets games in 2019 after general manager Daryl Morey posted a message in support of anti-government protests in Hong Kong and, earlier this year, former NBA player Dwight Howard appeared in a promotional video in which he referred to Taiwan as a country, prompting backlash.

"I have to say, the NBA is in the first class...(because) you know the players being exposed in China for so long," Yao said when asked about the past issues between China and the NBA. "The players, the teams (are) all still very well welcome in China and (we had) a couple of players with (in) China just this past summer."

Yao travelled to New York this week for the first time in nearly four years as part of a roughly 30-person Chinese delegation and met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver at a time when international participation in the league is at an all-time high.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/serie-a-juventus-go-top-after-dramatic-2-1-win-at-monza-federico-gatti-scores-94th-minute-winner-665313">Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner</a>

"Everything looks (like it is) running very, very well (under) his management," he said of Silver, who took the reins in 2014.

Separately, Yao said France's Victor Wembanyama possesses a talent that defies comparison, as the seven-foot, four-inch rookie makes his highly anticipated NBA regular-season debut on Wednesday.

Not since LeBron James 20 years ago has a prospect generated excitement on the level seen for the San Antonio Spurs' first overall pick, who will kick off at home against Texan rivals Dallas Mavericks after a remarkable preseason. "I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing like he does," said Yao, an eight-times NBA All-Star who stands two inches taller than Wembanyama.

"In a scout report where we say 'This guy is - how old he is, you know, his height, his wingspan and his capabilities'... and 'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody', you know. For him, it's like, I don't know who shall I put up... no comparing."

The Hall of Famer was reluctant to offer advice to the Frenchman Wembanyama, who enters the NBA at a time of unprecedented international participation in the league. "He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao, who was travelling to New York as part of a some 30-person Chinese delegation this week.

"And my experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country.

The National Basketball Association (NBA) and China may have encountered turbulence in their relations over the years but retired great Yao Ming told Reuters the league is still "first class" in his home country. Yao, the chairman of the Chinese Basketball Association, soared to stardom in the United States as the eight-time All-Star for the Houston Rockets, an affable, 7-foot, 6-inch NBA big man who dominated the league before retiring in 2011. Yao propelled the league's popularity in his home country but relations between China and the NBA have not always been smooth. Chinese broadcasters stopped airing Rockets games in 2019 after general manager Daryl Morey posted a message in support of anti-government protests in Hong Kong and, earlier this year, former NBA player Dwight Howard appeared in a promotional video in which he referred to Taiwan as a country, prompting backlash. "I have to say, the NBA is in the first class...(because) you know the players being exposed in China for so long," Yao said when asked about the past issues between China and the NBA. "The players, the teams (are) all still very well welcome in China and (we had) a couple of players with (in) China just this past summer." Yao travelled to New York this week for the first time in nearly four years as part of a roughly 30-person Chinese delegation and met with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver at a time when international participation in the league is at an all-time high. Also Read: Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner "Everything looks (like it is) running very, very well (under) his management," he said of Silver, who took the reins in 2014. Separately, Yao said France's Victor Wembanyama possesses a talent that defies comparison, as the seven-foot, four-inch rookie makes his highly anticipated NBA regular-season debut on Wednesday. Not since LeBron James 20 years ago has a prospect generated excitement on the level seen for the San Antonio Spurs' first overall pick, who will kick off at home against Texan rivals Dallas Mavericks after a remarkable preseason. "I never see a big guy like, you know, (who) can do such a thing like he does," said Yao, an eight-times NBA All-Star who stands two inches taller than Wembanyama. "In a scout report where we say 'This guy is - how old he is, you know, his height, his wingspan and his capabilities'... and 'He looks like, let's say, a former somebody', you know. For him, it's like, I don't know who shall I put up... no comparing." The Hall of Famer was reluctant to offer advice to the Frenchman Wembanyama, who enters the NBA at a time of unprecedented international participation in the league. "He has his own expedition to go (on)," said Yao, who was travelling to New York as part of a some 30-person Chinese delegation this week. "And my experience probably from 20 years ago, I'm not sure is still fit for today. So I just wish him all good luck."

Basketball: NBA remains 'first class' in China despite recent turbulences, says Yao Ming

Damian&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;made a&nbsp;triumphant&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;pre-season&nbsp;debut&nbsp;for the Milwaukee&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;on Sunday, combining well with&nbsp;Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Lillard, a seven-time All-Star guard traded from Portland to the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;last month, scored 14 points with three steals, three assists and two rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. The 33-year-old Tokyo Olympic gold medalist sank 3-of-10 shots from the floor, 2-of-7 from 3-point range, and all six of his free throws.

"I felt great. It's always a little bit of rust in the&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;but the game was very simple,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said.

"It was a matter of getting my wind up, just getting into the rhythm. They came out blitzing me in the&nbsp;beginning&nbsp;so it woke me up. It was just good to be back out on the floor."

Greek superstar center Antetokounmpo led the&nbsp;Bucks&nbsp;with 16 points and eight rebounds in just over 15 minutes on the court and blended well with new teammate&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;in the first game pairing of two of the&nbsp;NBA's top five scorers from last season, each netting more than 31 points a game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/al-hilal-defeat-cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-in-riyadh-derby-to-remain-to-top-665375">Al-Hilal defeat Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Riyadh derby to remain to top</a>

"I've been on the floor with them a decent amount over the last two weeks so I feel comfortable," said&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;of working with his new teammates.

"I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seemless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there."

<h2>- 'Keep building' -</h2>

The Lakers, playing without superstar LeBron James, were led by 16 points and seven rebounds from Anthony Davis. Lillard&nbsp;was pleased that he was able to play a comfortable and familiar game despite new teammates and limited minutes.

"I made the same plays I always make," he said. "I loosen up the defense. I make the right plays then I find my spots and I get aggressive in moments throughout the game. That's what I did tonight.

"Shorter minutes. First game out here. I felt good. We'll just keep building on that."

It has helped that many of the&nbsp;Bucks' offensive schemes were the same as Milwaukee assistant coach Terry Stotts used when he was the head coach at Portland from 2012-2021 when&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;played for the Trail Blazers.

"A lot of what we do offensively is what I did with him for nine years so it has been pretty simple as far as that adjustment,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said.

Lillard&nbsp;said his goal in the run-up to the&nbsp;Bucks' 2023-24 season opener on October 26 at home against Philadelphia is steady improvement. "Just to keep building,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said. "I think it's just one step at a time, enjoy the process and come in and just keep building and keep building throughout the season. That's all we can control."

Lillard&nbsp;and Antetokounmpo are building a chemistry that Milwaukee fans hope can produce a second&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;crown in four seasons. "It has been very solid,"&nbsp;Lillard&nbsp;said of his bond with the&nbsp;Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together.

"I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Damian Lillard made a triumphant NBA pre-season debut for the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, combining well with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

Damian Lillard made a triumphant NBA pre-season debut for the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, combining well with Giannis Antetokounmpo in a 108-97 road victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Lillard, a seven-time All-Star guard traded from Portland to the Bucks last month, scored 14 points with three steals, three assists and two rebounds in 22 minutes on the court. The 33-year-old Tokyo Olympic gold medalist sank 3-of-10 shots from the floor, 2-of-7 from 3-point range, and all six of his free throws. "I felt great. It's always a little bit of rust in the beginning but the game was very simple," Lillard said. "It was a matter of getting my wind up, just getting into the rhythm. They came out blitzing me in the beginning so it woke me up. It was just good to be back out on the floor." Greek superstar center Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 16 points and eight rebounds in just over 15 minutes on the court and blended well with new teammate Lillard in the first game pairing of two of the NBA's top five scorers from last season, each netting more than 31 points a game. Also Read: Al-Hilal defeat Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in Riyadh derby to remain to top "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount over the last two weeks so I feel comfortable," said Lillard of working with his new teammates. "I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seemless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there." - 'Keep building' - The Lakers, playing without superstar LeBron James, were led by 16 points and seven rebounds from Anthony Davis. Lillard was pleased that he was able to play a comfortable and familiar game despite new teammates and limited minutes. "I made the same plays I always make," he said. "I loosen up the defense. I make the right plays then I find my spots and I get aggressive in moments throughout the game. That's what I did tonight. "Shorter minutes. First game out here. I felt good. We'll just keep building on that." It has helped that many of the Bucks' offensive schemes were the same as Milwaukee assistant coach Terry Stotts used when he was the head coach at Portland from 2012-2021 when Lillard played for the Trail Blazers. "A lot of what we do offensively is what I did with him for nine years so it has been pretty simple as far as that adjustment," Lillard said. Lillard said his goal in the run-up to the Bucks' 2023-24 season opener on October 26 at home against Philadelphia is steady improvement. "Just to keep building," Lillard said. "I think it's just one step at a time, enjoy the process and come in and just keep building and keep building throughout the season. That's all we can control." Lillard and Antetokounmpo are building a chemistry that Milwaukee fans hope can produce a second NBA crown in four seasons. "It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together. "I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Damian Lillard wins pre-season debut for Milwaukee Bucks against Los Angeles Lakers

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title. The Bucks obtained seven-time All-Star guard Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers last month and united him with seven-time All-Star center Antetokounmpo to create a powerful inside-outside combination along the lines of legends Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal.

"Having a guy like Dame on the team, it's unbelievable," Antetokounmpo said. "Plays at a high level, built from the same cloth, wants to win. He's extremely hungry."

Lillard sees that same hunger in his new teammates. "I'm excited for what's to come," Lillard said.&nbsp;"They want to win equally as bad as I do. I couldn't be more excited. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity, to play alongside the best player in the league. It's going to be fun."

Lillard, 33,&nbsp;never reached the NBA Finals in 11 seasons at Portland and wanted out to make that breakthrough. "We've got to focus on the goal to win the championship," Antetokounmpo said. "Dame wants this. He's hungry to win, and he's going to push us. I'm very happy to have him on our team."

Also Read:<a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?categories=SPO&amp;id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2023%3Anewsml_KBN31J08F%3A1&amp;search=all%3Abasketball">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-juventus-go-top-after-dramatic-2-1-win-at-monza-federico-gatti-scores-94th-minute-winner-665313">Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner</a>

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee to the 2021 NBA title, delivering the Bucks' first crown in 50 years. But Milwaukee was ousted by Boston in the second round in 2022 and last year -- after 58 wins to become the Eastern Conference top seed -- crashed out to Miami in the first round. That sparked a revamp that included firing Mike Budenholzer as coach, replacing him with Toronto assistant Adrian Griffin.

The Bucks re-signed forward Khris Middleton and centre Brook Lopez, seen as a signal to Antetokounmpo that the team was serious about staying a title contender. Milwaukee erased any doubt on September 27 by landing Lillard in a three-team deal that saw 14-year NBA guard Jrue Holiday sent to Portland, which four days later traded him to Boston, likely the Bucks' top rival in the East.

Lillard averaged 32.2 points a game last season for Portland, third in the NBA, with Antetokounmpo fifth on 31.1 points a game while pulling down 11.8 rebounds a contest as well. The pick-and-roll partnership should see outside shooting chances for Lillard and inside opportunities for the 28-year-old Greek big man if rivals tighten on Lillard defensively.

"It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together.

"I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen."

That's with barely four weeks between the trade and Milwaukee's opener on Thursday against visiting Philadelphia."I know we're both willing to be ourselves and let the other guy be himself because I need Dame to be Dame and I think he needs me to be me," Antetokounmpo said.

<h2>'It has been seamless'</h2>

It's more than Antetokounmpo that Lillard has blended within the past month. "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount so I feel comfortable," Lillard said of working with his new teammates.

"I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seamless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there. "Lillard called his new club "a boost of energy and focus and excitement."&nbsp;"You make your way around and you start to see the level of the organization," he said. "They won a championship so it's the standard. I've been striving for that."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title.

Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo, two of the NBA's top scorers, have united into a dynamic duo that make the Milwaukee Bucks a formidable threat for the 2024 NBA title. The Bucks obtained seven-time All-Star guard Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers last month and united him with seven-time All-Star center Antetokounmpo to create a powerful inside-outside combination along the lines of legends Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O'Neal. "Having a guy like Dame on the team, it's unbelievable," Antetokounmpo said. "Plays at a high level, built from the same cloth, wants to win. He's extremely hungry." Lillard sees that same hunger in his new teammates. "I'm excited for what's to come," Lillard said. "They want to win equally as bad as I do. I couldn't be more excited. I couldn't be more thankful for this opportunity, to play alongside the best player in the league. It's going to be fun." Lillard, 33, never reached the NBA Finals in 11 seasons at Portland and wanted out to make that breakthrough. "We've got to focus on the goal to win the championship," Antetokounmpo said. "Dame wants this. He's hungry to win, and he's going to push us. I'm very happy to have him on our team." Also Read: Serie A: Juventus go top after dramatic 2-1 win at Monza; Federico Gatti scores 94th minute winner Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee to the 2021 NBA title, delivering the Bucks' first crown in 50 years. But Milwaukee was ousted by Boston in the second round in 2022 and last year -- after 58 wins to become the Eastern Conference top seed -- crashed out to Miami in the first round. That sparked a revamp that included firing Mike Budenholzer as coach, replacing him with Toronto assistant Adrian Griffin. The Bucks re-signed forward Khris Middleton and centre Brook Lopez, seen as a signal to Antetokounmpo that the team was serious about staying a title contender. Milwaukee erased any doubt on September 27 by landing Lillard in a three-team deal that saw 14-year NBA guard Jrue Holiday sent to Portland, which four days later traded him to Boston, likely the Bucks' top rival in the East. Lillard averaged 32.2 points a game last season for Portland, third in the NBA, with Antetokounmpo fifth on 31.1 points a game while pulling down 11.8 rebounds a contest as well. The pick-and-roll partnership should see outside shooting chances for Lillard and inside opportunities for the 28-year-old Greek big man if rivals tighten on Lillard defensively. "It has been very solid," Lillard said of his bond with the Bucks' big man. "It has been simple. I don't think I have, and I don't think he has either, gone into it overly trying to piece everything together. "I think our personalities mesh well. Our styles of play mesh well. Everything else has just happened organically in time and we've got to allow that space to happen." That's with barely four weeks between the trade and Milwaukee's opener on Thursday against visiting Philadelphia."I know we're both willing to be ourselves and let the other guy be himself because I need Dame to be Dame and I think he needs me to be me," Antetokounmpo said. 'It has been seamless' It's more than Antetokounmpo that Lillard has blended within the past month. "I've been on the floor with them a decent amount so I feel comfortable," Lillard said of working with his new teammates. "I think my game complements the guys really well so it has been seamless. It hasn't been hard at all. Now it's just a matter of being able to play other teams and getting used to each other and how we're going to operate out there. "Lillard called his new club "a boost of energy and focus and excitement." "You make your way around and you start to see the level of the organization," he said. "They won a championship so it's the standard. I've been striving for that." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Damian Lillard, Giannis Antetokounmpo join forces to make Bucks serious threat for NBA title

The defending NBA champion Denver&nbsp;Nuggets&nbsp;crashed to their first defeat of the season in an upset 110-89 loss to the Minnesota&nbsp;Timberwolves&nbsp;on Wednesday, while Boston extended their&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;start with a brutal thrashing of Indiana. Denver began the season in imperious form, building to a 4-0 start, but were stopped in their tracks after a dominant performance from the&nbsp;Timberwolves&nbsp;at Minneapolis's Target Center.

Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota scoring with 24 points while Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 21 in a wire-to-wire victory for the&nbsp;Timberwolves, who led by 19 points at half-time. Rudy Gobert delivered a crucial defensive performance with 12 rebounds and two blocks to help shut down Denver's free-scoring offense.

Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic led the Denver scorers with 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists. "It just shows what we're capable of, honestly," Minnesota's Mike Conley said after the win. "We know we can be a great team -- we've got to put it together for four quarters.&nbsp;

"Tonight we beat a really good team and were able to stick with the easy things and let that just bring us home," added Conley, who finished with 17 points. While Denver kissed goodbye to their&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;record, there were no such problems for the&nbsp;Celtics, who romped to a 155-104 blowout over the Pacers to improve to 4-0 at the top of the Eastern Conference.

Also Read<a href="https://www.reutersconnect.com/all?id=tag%3Areuters.com%2C2023%3Anewsml_KBN31P0ZJ%3A1&amp;search=all%3Abasketball%20game">:</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/global-warming-threatens-winter-olympics-future-organisers-soften-demand-in-order-to-retain-potential-hosts-664681">Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts</a>

The points total was the second-highest ever in&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;history, behind the 173 scored in a win over Minneapolis in 1959. Jayson Tatum led Boston with 30 points and 12 rebounds, with Derrick White adding 18 points and Sam Hauser 17 from five three-pointers.

<h2>&nbsp;LeBron snaps streak&nbsp;</h2>

The game was over as a contest well before the finish, allowing&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;coach Joe Mazzulla to rest his starters for the entirety of the fourth quarter. In other games, LeBron James&nbsp;produced a vintage 35-point performance as the Los Angeles Lakers staged a second-half rally to end their 11-game losing streak to city rivals the Los Angeles Clippers with a 130-125 overtime victory.

The Lakers trailed by 19 points early in the game but roared back in the second half to complete a dramatic win, the team's first over the Clippers since 2020. For long periods James appeared to be locked in a toe-to-toe battle with Clippers veteran Paul George, who scored 20 points in a remarkable fourth quarter to force the contest to overtime.

George, who finished with 35 points, fouled out early in overtime and momentum swung back to the Lakers who closed out the win. James received scoring support from Anthony Davis and D'Angelo Russell with 27 points each, while Austin Reaves added 15. In San Francisco, Klay Thompson drained a jump shot with 0.2 seconds remaining to clinch a thrilling 102-101 win for the Golden State Warriors over the Sacramento Kings.

Thompson's last-gasp bucket settled an engrossing duel between the two northern California teams which saw the lead change hands no fewer than 12 times.

The Warriors improve to 4-1 to move up to second in the Western Conference standings. In Toronto, the Milwaukee Bucks fell to 2-2 for the season after slumping to a 130-111 defeat on the road.

Pascal Siakam scored 26 points in a balanced offensive effort for the Raptors, who saw all five starters finish in double figures. German international Dennis Schroder had 24 points and Scottie Barnes added 21 as Toronto outgunned the Bucks' twin-pronged line-up led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and new signing Damian Lillard.

Antetokounmpo was restricted to 16 points while Lillard finished with 15 as the Raptors cruised to their second win of the season against a Bucks team led by their former assistant coach Adrian Griffin. In Dallas, the Mavericks maintained their perfect start to the season to improve to 4-0 with a 114-105 defeat of the Chicago Bulls.

Grant Williams had 25 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. posted 24 points while Luka Doncic added 18 points with 10 assists as Dallas overturned a five-point deficit early in the fourth quarter to close out victory.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets crashed to their first defeat of the season in an upset 110-89 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, while Boston extended their unbeaten start with a brutal thrashing of Indiana.

The defending NBA champion Denver Nuggets crashed to their first defeat of the season in an upset 110-89 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Wednesday, while Boston extended their unbeaten start with a brutal thrashing of Indiana. Denver began the season in imperious form, building to a 4-0 start, but were stopped in their tracks after a dominant performance from the Timberwolves at Minneapolis's Target Center. Anthony Edwards led the Minnesota scoring with 24 points while Karl-Anthony Towns finished with 21 in a wire-to-wire victory for the Timberwolves, who led by 19 points at half-time. Rudy Gobert delivered a crucial defensive performance with 12 rebounds and two blocks to help shut down Denver's free-scoring offense. Two-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic led the Denver scorers with 25 points, 10 rebounds and three assists. "It just shows what we're capable of, honestly," Minnesota's Mike Conley said after the win. "We know we can be a great team -- we've got to put it together for four quarters. "Tonight we beat a really good team and were able to stick with the easy things and let that just bring us home," added Conley, who finished with 17 points. While Denver kissed goodbye to their unbeaten record, there were no such problems for the Celtics, who romped to a 155-104 blowout over the Pacers to improve to 4-0 at the top of the Eastern Conference. Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts The points total was the second-highest ever in Celtics history, behind the 173 scored in a win over Minneapolis in 1959. Jayson Tatum led Boston with 30 points and 12 rebounds, with Derrick White adding 18 points and Sam Hauser 17 from five three-pointers. LeBron snaps streak The game was over as a contest well before the finish, allowing Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla to rest his starters for the entirety of the fourth quarter. In other games, LeBron James produced a vintage 35-point performance as the Los Angeles Lakers staged a second-half rally to end their 11-game losing streak to city rivals the Los Angeles Clippers with a 130-125 overtime victory. The Lakers trailed by 19 points early in the game but roared back in the second half to complete a dramatic win, the team's first over the Clippers since 2020. For long periods James appeared to be locked in a toe-to-toe battle with Clippers veteran Paul George, who scored 20 points in a remarkable fourth quarter to force the contest to overtime. George, who finished with 35 points, fouled out early in overtime and momentum swung back to the Lakers who closed out the win. James received scoring support from Anthony Davis and D'Angelo Russell with 27 points each, while Austin Reaves added 15. In San Francisco, Klay Thompson drained a jump shot with 0.2 seconds remaining to clinch a thrilling 102-101 win for the Golden State Warriors over the Sacramento Kings. Thompson's last-gasp bucket settled an engrossing duel between the two northern California teams which saw the lead change hands no fewer than 12 times. The Warriors improve to 4-1 to move up to second in the Western Conference standings. In Toronto, the Milwaukee Bucks fell to 2-2 for the season after slumping to a 130-111 defeat on the road. Pascal Siakam scored 26 points in a balanced offensive effort for the Raptors, who saw all five starters finish in double figures. German international Dennis Schroder had 24 points and Scottie Barnes added 21 as Toronto outgunned the Bucks' twin-pronged line-up led by Giannis Antetokounmpo and new signing Damian Lillard. Antetokounmpo was restricted to 16 points while Lillard finished with 15 as the Raptors cruised to their second win of the season against a Bucks team led by their former assistant coach Adrian Griffin. In Dallas, the Mavericks maintained their perfect start to the season to improve to 4-0 with a 114-105 defeat of the Chicago Bulls. Grant Williams had 25 points, Tim Hardaway Jr. posted 24 points while Luka Doncic added 18 points with 10 assists as Dallas overturned a five-point deficit early in the fourth quarter to close out victory. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Denver Nuggets lose their first match of season against Minnesota Timberwolves

There is a huge sigh of relief for LeBron James and his family. LeBron's elder son Bronny James has been granted the medical approval to make a comeback to college basketball activities, four months after suffering a cardiac arrest during practice. Recently, the James family revealed that the 19-year-old Bronny,&nbsp;who was found to have a congenital heart defect, is aiming to stage a return to workouts next week with the University of Southern California (USC).

The James family said in a statement, "Bronny James is now cleared by his doctors for a full return to basketball. Bronny will have a final evaluation with USC staff this week, resume practice next week, and return to games soon after. The James family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible medical team, the entire USC community, and especially the countless friends, family, and fans for their love and support. Fight On!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-plot-long-stay-at-premier-league-summit-man-city-play-tottenham-and-newcastle-host-man-united-664868">Arsenal plot long stay at Premier League summit, Man City play Tottenham and Newcastle host Man United</a>

It is to be noted that Bronny --&nbsp;a prized high school prospect -- is already making waves at the college basketball and was&nbsp;selected by USC early this year&nbsp;in&nbsp;May. However, his progress was dented&nbsp;in&nbsp;July during a workout when&nbsp;Bronny&nbsp;collapsed and was hospitalised for three days. Soon,&nbsp;the heart defect diagnosis was revealed in August.

The USC Trojans are off to a flying 5-2 start in the 2023-24 season. They will further be lifted by&nbsp;Bronny's presence, who could make his USC debut as early as December 10 when his side goes up against Long Beach State.

There is a huge sigh of relief for LeBron James and his family. LeBron's elder son Bronny James has been granted the medical approval to make a comeback to college basketball activities, four months after suffering a cardiac arrest during practice.

There is a huge sigh of relief for LeBron James and his family. LeBron's elder son Bronny James has been granted the medical approval to make a comeback to college basketball activities, four months after suffering a cardiac arrest during practice. Recently, the James family revealed that the 19-year-old Bronny, who was found to have a congenital heart defect, is aiming to stage a return to workouts next week with the University of Southern California (USC). The James family said in a statement, "Bronny James is now cleared by his doctors for a full return to basketball. Bronny will have a final evaluation with USC staff this week, resume practice next week, and return to games soon after. The James family would like to express their gratitude to the incredible medical team, the entire USC community, and especially the countless friends, family, and fans for their love and support. Fight On!" Also read: Arsenal plot long stay at Premier League summit, Man City play Tottenham and Newcastle host Man United It is to be noted that Bronny -- a prized high school prospect -- is already making waves at the college basketball and was selected by USC early this year in May. However, his progress was dented in July during a workout when Bronny collapsed and was hospitalised for three days. Soon, the heart defect diagnosis was revealed in August. The USC Trojans are off to a flying 5-2 start in the 2023-24 season. They will further be lifted by Bronny's presence, who could make his USC debut as early as December 10 when his side goes up against Long Beach State.

LeBron James' elder son Bronny James set to return to college basketball activities after cardiac arrest

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.&nbsp; This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest.

It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-nfl-dallas-cowboys-rally-late-for-41-35-impressive-win-over-seattle-seahawks-664979">NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for an impressive 41-35 win over Seattle Seahawks</a>

Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained.

Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch.

"Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead.

Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes.

In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91.

"Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro."

<h2>Tatum leads Boston win&nbsp;</h2>

In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102.

C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas.

French prodigy Victor Wembanyama scored 15 points on his much-anticipated NBA debut on Wednesday but it was not enough to prevent the San Antonio Spurs slipping to a 126-119 defeat to Dallas. This year's top NBA Draft pick, in foul trouble throughout the second half, made 6-of-9 shots from the floor, 3-of-5 from 3-point range, with five rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot over 23 minutes in his first NBA contest. It was Slovenian guard Luka Doncic of Dallas who starred with 33 points, 14 rebounds and 10 assists as the Mavericks scored the last eight points for the victory."It all starts with our defense," Doncic said. "We played good defense for three quarters but especially at the end we locked in." Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for an impressive 41-35 win over Seattle Seahawks Wembanyama, the 19-year-old phenomenon considered the top NBA prospect since LeBron James, used his 7-foot-4 (2.24m) frame, surprising quickness and outside shooting touch to display his arsenal of skills in the first game of his rookie campaign. After picking up his fifth foul only 26 seconds into the fourth quarter, Wembanyama went to the bench until only 7:12 remained. Only 19 seconds later, Wembanyama made an alley-oop dunk shot off a pass from Devin Vassell, then added a 3-pointer, and his dunk with 4:56 to play gave the Spurs a 113-112 lead. A Wembanyama jumper tied it at 115-115 with 3:55 remaining, but the Mavs were too tough for the Spurs down the stretch. "Wemby" began drawing huge cheers after only 38 seconds, blocking a jump shot by eight-time NBA All-Star guard Kyrie Irving. Attracting global attention since before joining the squad where compatriot Tony Parker became an NBA superstar, Wembanyama grabbed his first rebound off the defensive boards after 59 seconds and his first assist came 12 seconds later off a Zach Collins jumper. Wembanyama opened his NBA scoring account on a 3-pointer with 8:24 remaining in the first quarter for a 13-7 Spurs lead. Wembanyama picked up his second foul late in the first quarter and went to the bench with the Spurs ahead 40-33 on the way to a 68-64 halftime lead. In the first half, Wembanyama had six points on 2-of-4 shooting, all from 3-point range, with three rebounds, a blocked shot, an assist and a steal over 12 minutes. In the second half, Wembanyama picked up his third and fourth fouls 39 seconds apart, both offensively, and went to the bench 3:23 into the third quarter. Seconds later, the Mavericks took their first lead at 73-72 and closed the quarter on an 8-0 run for their largest lead to that point at 96-91. "Fortunately for us he's a very tooled, prioritized young man," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said of Wembanyama. "I don't have to teach him what is it to be a pro." Tatum leads Boston win In other NBA openers, Jayson Tatum had 34 points and 11 rebounds while Latvian forward Kristaps Porzingis added 30 points to lead Boston's 108-104 triumph at New York. Porzingis had the most points for any player making his Celtics debut. Sacramento's Harrison Barnes scored 33 points to power Sacramento over host Utah 130-114. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 31 points led Oklahoma City in a 124-104 win at Chicago. Donovan Mitchell's 3-pointer with 12.1 seconds remaining lifted Cleveland to a 114-113 victory at Brooklyn. Mitchell and Max Strus each scored 27 to lead the Cavaliers. Detroit missed four shots in the last 64 seconds and host Miami, led by Bam Adebayo's 22 points and 19 from Jimmy Butler, edged the Pistons 103-102. C.J. McCollum had 24 points and Zion Williamson added 23 to lead New Orleans over host Memphis 111-104.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama points not enough to defeat Dallas Mavericks

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;beat&nbsp;rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday&nbsp;while&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Draft top pick Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;starred in his&nbsp;first&nbsp;win&nbsp;for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the&nbsp;Celtics&nbsp;won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series.

Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over.

Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a&nbsp;Heat&nbsp;team that secured a place in the&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said.

"It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl/news-nfl-dallas-cowboys-rally-late-for-41-35-impressive-win-over-seattle-seahawks-664979">NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks</a>

"I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation.&nbsp;Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period.

"I'm proud of what we did tonight,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "We can see where we can get better. A&nbsp;win&nbsp;is a&nbsp;win&nbsp;but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the&nbsp;first&nbsp;half.

"He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to&nbsp;win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent."

<h2>Proud 'Pop' praise&nbsp;</h2>

Wembanyama&nbsp;finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my&nbsp;first-ever&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;win, just made me proud of myself,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come."

Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said&nbsp;Wembanyama.

Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime&nbsp;win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points.

Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs.

Derrick White put up 28 points as the Boston Celtics beat rivals Miami 119-111 on Friday while NBA Draft top pick Victor Wembanyama starred in his first win for the San Antonio Spurs. Jayson Tatum scored 22 points and Jaylen Brown contributed 27 in a strong all-around display from Boston, with all five starters in double figures as the Celtics won their home opener, a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference championship series. Miami trailed by just three points with 47.1 seconds left when Jimmy Butler was called for a foul on White, which was unsuccessfully challenged by furious Miami coach Erik Spoelstra. White then drained his two free throws and when Tyler Herro missed a 3-point jumper and Brown sank his from 30-feet out, Miami's resistance was finally over. Three crucial blocks added to an impressive performance from White, who was delighted with beating a Heat team that secured a place in the NBA Finals with a game-seven triumph at Boston. "Anytime you're on home court, you want to protect the home court and obviously, last time we played them here, they came out winning," White said. "It's always a big game every time we play against them and we're going to see them down the line a lot of times. So it's always fun." Frenchman Wembanyama turned on the style in San Antonio's 126-122 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets, coming up big in the latter stages of the game as he put up 21 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocked shots and two steals. "It's just a victory but it's a day I'll remember," Wembanyama said. Also Read: NFL: Dallas Cowboys rally late for 41-35 impressive win over Seattle Seahawks "I really love winning. This is what I love most in life. Of course it feels great." The Spurs trailed by two with 32.1 seconds remaining when the 19-year-old grabbed a defensive rebound and tied the game on a driving layup with 20 seconds remaining in regulation. Wembanyama's 16-foot jumper put his team ahead in overtime and he grabbed four total rebounds in the additional period. "I'm proud of what we did tonight," Wembanyama said. "We can see where we can get better. A win is a win but it shows that we got a lot of way to go as a team." Spurs coach Gregg Popovich was impressed by the youngster's impact in his second NBA start, despite "Wemby" going only 2-of-10 from the floor in the first half. "He's a competitor of course. He's gonna be decisive and do everything to win. But they're all like that," he said. "We showed some composure and some not so composed. That's work in progress. Good was they were persistent." Proud 'Pop' praise Wembanyama finished the night with 7-of-19 shooting from the floor, grabbing five offensive and seven defensive rebounds. "Back in the locker room, Pop acknowledged it was my first-ever NBA win, just made me proud of myself," Wembanyama said. "But it's just one. We have a whole lot games to come." Wembanyama's three dunks brought the arena fans to their feet but he received plenty of verbal attention from Popovich in the final minute of the game. "Cause I forgot a play. It's a little mistake -- 100% legit for him to yell at me. I apologize." said Wembanyama. Nikola Jokic scored 22 points and made 12 rebounds and seven assists as the reigning NBA champion Denver Nuggets went to 2-0 with a 108-104 victory over Memphis. The Chicago Bulls also enjoyed an overtime win, beating the Toronto Raptors 104-103 with Demar DeRozan scoring 33 points. Alex Caruso's 3-point jumper with 2.1 seconds remaining secured the victory for Chicago. Luka Doncic scored 49 points, including a crucial 3-pointer with 26.1 seconds left, as the Dallas Mavericks held off the Brooklyn Nets 125-120 WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

NBA: Derrick White helps Boston Celtics beat Miami Heat, Victor Wembanyama shines in first win for Spurs

Chinese basketball great Yao Ming says that criticism of the men's national team has gone too far after some players were abused online following a series of disappointing results. Basketball is hugely popular in China, but the team has consistently failed to live up to high expectations, with the latest letdown a loss to the Philippines in the semi-finals of the Asian Games on home soil last month.

China beat Taiwan to win bronze but the campaign was regarded as a failure and came weeks after they finished 29th of 32 teams at the World Cup, missing out on next year's Paris Olympics. Fan anger has failed to dissipate, and national players have been targeted online in recent weeks, including Zhang Zhenlin of Liaoning Flying Leopards.

"Here I represent the association to make a statement," Yao, an eight-time NBA All-Star and now president of the Chinese Basketball Association, said Thursday at a Chinese basketball Hall of Fame event in Beijing. "No matter if we play well or badly on the basketball court, we will face up to the result," state media quoted him as saying.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/global-warming-threatens-winter-olympics-future-organisers-soften-demand-in-order-to-retain-potential-hosts-664681">Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts</a>

"Some criticism on technique and tactics is welcome, but some things have gone beyond basketball and we don't agree with that. "We will always support our players to defend their rights and interests, and in this regard (online abuse), we will provide all the necessary support."

Following the 77-76 defeat to the Philippines -- who went on to win Asian Games gold in Hangzhou -- fed-up Chinese fans piled in online to berate and mock their team. "Watching you play basketball is a form of pain, isn't it?" one popular meme asked. The 43-year-old Yao had labelled the China players "slackers" and warned there was a "huge gap" between them and the world's best teams.

Chinese basketball great Yao Ming says that criticism of the men's national team has gone too far after some players were abused online following a series of disappointing results.

Chinese basketball great Yao Ming says that criticism of the men's national team has gone too far after some players were abused online following a series of disappointing results. Basketball is hugely popular in China, but the team has consistently failed to live up to high expectations, with the latest letdown a loss to the Philippines in the semi-finals of the Asian Games on home soil last month. China beat Taiwan to win bronze but the campaign was regarded as a failure and came weeks after they finished 29th of 32 teams at the World Cup, missing out on next year's Paris Olympics. Fan anger has failed to dissipate, and national players have been targeted online in recent weeks, including Zhang Zhenlin of Liaoning Flying Leopards. "Here I represent the association to make a statement," Yao, an eight-time NBA All-Star and now president of the Chinese Basketball Association, said Thursday at a Chinese basketball Hall of Fame event in Beijing. "No matter if we play well or badly on the basketball court, we will face up to the result," state media quoted him as saying. Also Read: Global warming threatens Winter Olympics future, organisers soften demand in order to retain potential hosts "Some criticism on technique and tactics is welcome, but some things have gone beyond basketball and we don't agree with that. "We will always support our players to defend their rights and interests, and in this regard (online abuse), we will provide all the necessary support." Following the 77-76 defeat to the Philippines -- who went on to win Asian Games gold in Hangzhou -- fed-up Chinese fans piled in online to berate and mock their team. "Watching you play basketball is a form of pain, isn't it?" one popular meme asked. The 43-year-old Yao had labelled the China players "slackers" and warned there was a "huge gap" between them and the world's best teams.

Fans target basketball players of China after disappointing results, Yao Ming says criticism gone too far

French&nbsp;phenomenon&nbsp;Victor&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;poured in&nbsp;38&nbsp;points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;held&nbsp;off&nbsp;a late Phoenix rally to beat the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;132-121 on Thursday. Wembanyama, the number one draft pick playing in his fifth NBA game, notched 20 points in the first half as the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;pushed their advantage to as many as 27 on the way to a 75-55 lead at the break.

The towering 19-year-old then showed plenty of poise after the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;roared back to tie the game at 116-116 on Keita Bates-Diop's three-pointer with 4:21 remaining. The&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;responded with 12 straight points, 10 of them from&nbsp;Wembanyama, who produced three free-throws, a dunk, a three-pointer and a turnaround jump shot to put San Antonio back in charge.

"Somebody's got to do it,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said of taking responsibility at the crucial moment. "Tomorrow it's going to be one of my teammates." The burst was even more impressive than his highlight-reel dunk in the second quarter and back-to-back three-pointers to end the first half.

In all&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;connected on 15 of 26 shots from the field and pulled down 10 rebounds with two blocked shots to help the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;notch their second win in three days over the&nbsp;Suns. On Tuesday San Antonio erased a 20-point third-quarter deficit to stun Phoenix 115-114.

The two games reinforced what&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said was the biggest NBA lesson he'd learned so far -- that "maybe a 20-point lead is nothing." On Thursday the&nbsp;Spurs&nbsp;never trailed, although it looked like the&nbsp;Suns&nbsp;might turn the tables as Devin Booker scored 21 of his 31 points in the second half and Kevin Durant scored 15 of his 28 after the break in a furious rally bid.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nba/news-nba-mark-cuban-sells-majority-stake-of-dallas-mavericks-to-casino-tycoon-miriam-adelson-664600">NBA: Mark Cuban sells majority stake of Dallas Mavericks to Casino tycoon Miriam Adelson</a>

Booker, back from an ankle injury, added 13 rebounds and nine assists, but the&nbsp;Suns, hindered by 14 turnovers, never gained the lead. "Of course there was the threat of Durant and Booker, that was our major concern playing the&nbsp;Suns, especially in the fourth quarter,"&nbsp;Wembanyama&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"It worked really well in the first quarter -- the energy we brought -- so we really tried to find this again, to lock in, know our rotations, our tactics." Durant, the former NBA Most Valuable Player and an idol of&nbsp;Wembanyama's, said he didn't think the French youngster's game was too heavily influenced by his own. "I'm sure he said he watched me growing up, but he's his own player," Durant said. "He's going to create his own lane much different than anybody who's ever played."

<h2>&nbsp;Sixers top Raptors&nbsp;</h2>

Elsewhere, Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first game since trading James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by&nbsp;Harden's trade demand.

Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse. "Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all."

Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Clippers "would have been better a month ago." Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game, in the final minutes.

Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists. Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts. In New Orlans, CJ McCollum scored 33 points to lead the Pelicans to a 125-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

French phenomenon Victor Wembanyama poured in 38 points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio Spurs held off a late Phoenix rally to beat the Suns 132-121 on Thursday.

French phenomenon Victor Wembanyama poured in 38 points and came up big in the fourth quarter as the San Antonio Spurs held off a late Phoenix rally to beat the Suns 132-121 on Thursday. Wembanyama, the number one draft pick playing in his fifth NBA game, notched 20 points in the first half as the Spurs pushed their advantage to as many as 27 on the way to a 75-55 lead at the break. The towering 19-year-old then showed plenty of poise after the Suns roared back to tie the game at 116-116 on Keita Bates-Diop's three-pointer with 4:21 remaining. The Spurs responded with 12 straight points, 10 of them from Wembanyama, who produced three free-throws, a dunk, a three-pointer and a turnaround jump shot to put San Antonio back in charge. "Somebody's got to do it," Wembanyama said of taking responsibility at the crucial moment. "Tomorrow it's going to be one of my teammates." The burst was even more impressive than his highlight-reel dunk in the second quarter and back-to-back three-pointers to end the first half. In all Wembanyama connected on 15 of 26 shots from the field and pulled down 10 rebounds with two blocked shots to help the Spurs notch their second win in three days over the Suns. On Tuesday San Antonio erased a 20-point third-quarter deficit to stun Phoenix 115-114. The two games reinforced what Wembanyama said was the biggest NBA lesson he'd learned so far -- that "maybe a 20-point lead is nothing." On Thursday the Spurs never trailed, although it looked like the Suns might turn the tables as Devin Booker scored 21 of his 31 points in the second half and Kevin Durant scored 15 of his 28 after the break in a furious rally bid. Also Read: NBA: Mark Cuban sells majority stake of Dallas Mavericks to Casino tycoon Miriam Adelson Booker, back from an ankle injury, added 13 rebounds and nine assists, but the Suns, hindered by 14 turnovers, never gained the lead. "Of course there was the threat of Durant and Booker, that was our major concern playing the Suns, especially in the fourth quarter," Wembanyama said. "It worked really well in the first quarter -- the energy we brought -- so we really tried to find this again, to lock in, know our rotations, our tactics." Durant, the former NBA Most Valuable Player and an idol of Wembanyama's, said he didn't think the French youngster's game was too heavily influenced by his own. "I'm sure he said he watched me growing up, but he's his own player," Durant said. "He's going to create his own lane much different than anybody who's ever played." Sixers top Raptors Elsewhere, Joel Embiid scored 28 points and grabbed 13 rebounds to lead Philadelphia to a 114-99 victory over the Toronto Raptors in the 76ers' first game since trading James Harden to the Los Angeles Clippers. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris added 23 points apiece and Tyrese Maxey had 18 for the 76ers, who notched a third straight victory and improved to 3-1 in a young season that had so far been overshadowed by Harden's trade demand. Maxey insisted that Harden's professionalism meant there were no distractions for a team adjusting to new coach Nick Nurse. "Everybody was really focused on trying to get better," Maxey said of pre-season preparations. "This is coach Nurse's first year, so we were trying to learn schemes, learn how he thinks... there wasn't much of a distraction at all." Nurse said before the game that from a competitive standpoint Harden's trade to the Clippers "would have been better a month ago." Of the new arrivals in the deal -- Nicolas Batum, Robert Covington, KJ Martin and Marcus Morris -- only Covington and Martin entered the game, in the final minutes. Reigning NBA Most Valuable Player Embiid made just eight of 22 shots from the floor but connected on 12 of 13 from the free-throw line and handed out seven assists. Oubre started in place of PJ Tucker -- who was part of the Harden trade -- and connected on five of six three-point attempts. In New Orlans, CJ McCollum scored 33 points to lead the Pelicans to a 125-116 victory over the Detroit Pistons.

NBA: Victor Wembanyama's 38 points helps San Antonio Spurs defeat Phoenix Spurs

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5)&nbsp;while&nbsp;Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning&nbsp;NBA&nbsp;rally at San Antonio. Toronto made a 22-point fightback to beat the Spurs 123-116 in overtime while the Cleveland Cavaliers sparkled as well, snapping a 12-game regular-season losing streak to Golden State dating to Christmas 2016.

Durant added five assists, four rebounds, three blocked shots and a steal to power the Suns past the host Pistons 120-106. "He was terrific, scored the ball every way you can, really wants it," Suns coach Frank Vogel said. "Just a really terrific performance. He's really good at basketball and he showed it tonight."

The Suns outscored Detroit in every quarter as Eric Gordon contributed 21 points and eight assists for Phoenix, which snapped a three-game losing skid. "We're excited because we finally got a win," Durant said. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 26 points in the first regular-season matchup between the Suns and their former coach Williams.

After Williams was fired as the Suns' coach following a second-round playoff exit last season, Detroit signed him to a six-year deal worth $78.5 million. The Suns were without Bradley Beal, sidelined by back spasms, and Devin Booker, out with a calf strain.

<h2>Raptors rally</h2>

At Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points and Darius Garland added 24 to power the Cavaliers over Golden State 115-104. "The biggest thing for us is that we put together a full game," Mitchell said.

"We fought hard. That's a tough team. They have a lot of guys who have won championship rings and we're trying to get to that level. We've got to continue this momentum."

Evan Mobley added a game-high 16 rebounds for the Cavs. "He was dominant," Mitchell said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/japanese-university-scraps-team-for-alleged-possession-of-drug-664543">Japanese University scraps team for alleged possession of drug</a>

Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 28 points, hitting 7-of-11 shots from 3-point range, while Draymond Green added 18 points for Golden State, which saw a five-game win streak ended. At San Antonio, 26-year-old English forward Anunoby scored 24 points for the Raptors, hitting a career-best seven 3-pointers to spark a shocking comeback over star French rookie Victor Wembanyama's Spurs.

Scottie Barnes sparkled for Toronto with a game-high 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, three steals and three blocked shots. Anunoby sank the tying basket off a rebound with one second remaining to send the game into overtime at 110-110. His 3-pointer in the extra session game Toronto a 118-112 edge.

German guard Dennis Schroder added 24 points for the Raptors. Keldon Johnson led San Antonio with 26 points while Zach Collins added 21 points and 11 rebounds and Wembanyama contributed 20 points, nine rebounds, five blocked shots and four assists for the Spurs.

<h2>Memphis finally wins</h2>

Desmond Bane scored 30 points and Jaren Jackson added 27 to spark previously winless Memphis to victory, the Grizzlies improving to 1-6 with a 112-100 triumph at Portland. At Dallas, Slovenian guard Luka Doncic had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists to spark the Dallas Mavericks over Charlotte 124-118.

Kyrie Irving had 18 points and 10 assists for the Mavs, 5-1 overall and 3-0 at home, while Grant Williams scored 18 points and Dereck Lively added 15 points and 14 rebounds. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with a triple-double of 30 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds.

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5) while Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning NBA rally at San Antonio.

Kevin Durant scored 41 points to lead the Phoenix Suns over Detroit and former Suns coach Monty Williams on Sunday (Nov 5) while Britain's OG Anunoby sparked Toronto's stunning NBA rally at San Antonio. Toronto made a 22-point fightback to beat the Spurs 123-116 in overtime while the Cleveland Cavaliers sparkled as well, snapping a 12-game regular-season losing streak to Golden State dating to Christmas 2016. Durant added five assists, four rebounds, three blocked shots and a steal to power the Suns past the host Pistons 120-106. "He was terrific, scored the ball every way you can, really wants it," Suns coach Frank Vogel said. "Just a really terrific performance. He's really good at basketball and he showed it tonight." The Suns outscored Detroit in every quarter as Eric Gordon contributed 21 points and eight assists for Phoenix, which snapped a three-game losing skid. "We're excited because we finally got a win," Durant said. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 26 points in the first regular-season matchup between the Suns and their former coach Williams. After Williams was fired as the Suns' coach following a second-round playoff exit last season, Detroit signed him to a six-year deal worth $78.5 million. The Suns were without Bradley Beal, sidelined by back spasms, and Devin Booker, out with a calf strain. Raptors rally At Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points and Darius Garland added 24 to power the Cavaliers over Golden State 115-104. "The biggest thing for us is that we put together a full game," Mitchell said. "We fought hard. That's a tough team. They have a lot of guys who have won championship rings and we're trying to get to that level. We've got to continue this momentum." Evan Mobley added a game-high 16 rebounds for the Cavs. "He was dominant," Mitchell said. Also Read: Japanese University scraps team for alleged possession of drug Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 28 points, hitting 7-of-11 shots from 3-point range, while Draymond Green added 18 points for Golden State, which saw a five-game win streak ended. At San Antonio, 26-year-old English forward Anunoby scored 24 points for the Raptors, hitting a career-best seven 3-pointers to spark a shocking comeback over star French rookie Victor Wembanyama's Spurs. Scottie Barnes sparkled for Toronto with a game-high 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists, three steals and three blocked shots. Anunoby sank the tying basket off a rebound with one second remaining to send the game into overtime at 110-110. His 3-pointer in the extra session game Toronto a 118-112 edge. German guard Dennis Schroder added 24 points for the Raptors. Keldon Johnson led San Antonio with 26 points while Zach Collins added 21 points and 11 rebounds and Wembanyama contributed 20 points, nine rebounds, five blocked shots and four assists for the Spurs. Memphis finally wins Desmond Bane scored 30 points and Jaren Jackson added 27 to spark previously winless Memphis to victory, the Grizzlies improving to 1-6 with a 112-100 triumph at Portland. At Dallas, Slovenian guard Luka Doncic had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists to spark the Dallas Mavericks over Charlotte 124-118. Kyrie Irving had 18 points and 10 assists for the Mavs, 5-1 overall and 3-0 at home, while Grant Williams scored 18 points and Dereck Lively added 15 points and 14 rebounds. LaMelo Ball led the Hornets with a triple-double of 30 points, 13 assists and 10 rebounds.

NBA: Kevin Durant leads Suns over Pistons, Cavaliers down Warriors

basketball

Basketball, News on Basketball, stories on Basketball, articles on Basketball, Basketball stories at Wion, Basketball news, Basketball latest news